As most of my followers know, I have been tracking how many bags I'm saving by using my reusable bags when shopping. For those that don't, catch up here:
Down with Shopping Bags! Recently, I have learned some interesting facts. I volunteer at the Shedd Aquarium and recently worked an Eco-social they had, where I learned that the resources to make a paper bag including wood, energy and water far out way the recourses required to make a plastic bag! I was astounded that it takes over a gallon of water per bag! Yes, a GALLON, per bag!! So this made me want to find out more, because when I accidentally forgot my reusable bags, which is rare but does happen, I wanted to know what to use. One study I read noted that it takes 70% more energy to make a paper bag versus a plastic one! (
Website sited) It also takes 91% less energy according to the
EPA to recycle a plastic bag versus a paper! There are definitely pros and cons to either...
THIS is a good one illustrating why plastic is better and unfortunately I couldn't find one that was very pro paper at all, must just said neither...
So which one do you choose? There is no simple answer but here is my opinion:
Reusable Bags: This is obviously our first choice, chose one that is recyclable or biodegradable at the end of its life though, watch out for the freebie ones.
After that I opt for:
Paper: because I have a compost during warm months and I never have enough "browns", other reasons would be if you need a weed block for your garden or have another use for paper bags like school books, roasting peppers, gift wrapping, etc.
Plastic: if you don't have any of the above needs for paper and promise to return them to the store for recycling then plastic is really your best option. Bringing it back for recycling is key here, so that it doesn't end up in the ocean or a landfill, and yes your bag from Chicago CAN end up in the Ocean...
