Plastic bags have become a big problem in this country and around the world. In addition to being an eyesore in our environment, the billions of plastic bags used each year have a big impact on petroleum depletion, global warming, city budgets and natural habitats.
Let me help put the problem into perspective for you.
- The 380 billion plastic bags that Americans throw away each year are made from millions of barrels of petroleum, contributing to global warming, depleting oil supplies, and driving up costs of petroleum-based products like gasoline and energy for our homes.
- The petroleum in 14 plastic bags could drive a car a mile.
- Disposable bags cost our cities up to 17 cents per bag for disposal.
- New York City estimates that if each New Yorker used one less bag per year, the city would save a quarter of a million dollars.
- Littered plastic bags are an eyesore for humans-and a deadly killer for wildlife.
- One study estimated that 100,000 marine animals are killed annually by plastic bags.
– Statistics from 1BagAtATime
Paper bags are not the solution since they emit more greenhouse gases and water pollution and use more raw materials and energy than plastic bags during manufacturing. Eighty percent of all paper bags end up in landfills. There, they do not biodegrade because of a lack of oxygen.
What is the solution? Reusable bags!
In every study, reusable bags are rated best for the environment. Reusable bags can be purchased from many stores, bought off the Internet, or you can make your own. Each reusable bag you use has the potential to eliminate hundreds, possibly thousands, of plastic bags during its lifetime!
Make Your Own:
For the thrifty and crafty mamas, here are some links to help you get started making your own grocery bags and produce bags:
Make your own Green Grocery Bags
Make your own Eco Bag
Make your own one string bag
Make your own Reusable Produce Bags
Buy Your Own:
Not feeling so crafty?
You can also purchase your own reusable bags:
1 Bag At A Time
Reusable Bags
Eco Bags
Or buy reusable produce bags:
Reusable produce bags sold on Etsy
BYO Bags (produce bags)
Tips to Reduce Plastic Bag Consumption:
from Reusablebags.com
- Start using reusable bags.
- Refuse a bag.
- Reuse plastic bags that you've accumulated as garbage liners.
- Get stores to offer cash credits if you bring in your own bags.
- Open your eyes to how many bags you consume: keep count.
- Start spreading the word to others.
- Cut down on plastic produce bags by buying or making your own.
Remember, every little bit helps. 
Next time I will return to discussing the three Rs – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle and will tackle how to reduce our consumption.
Don't forget to come and share your ideas on going green at Blissfully Domestic Living!
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At first I was apprehensive about buying reuseable bags because they used to be so expensive. About 6 months ago, I was at my local grocer, and they had a special 5/$2. I bought 10. I now use them everywhere. I get odd looks when I pull them out at Target, but they are much sturdier(no more broken bags and groceries running all over the place) and I feel better that I'm not using tons and tons of plastic bags every time I go to one of these places.
If I absolutely must use plastic bags, I insist that as many things go into one bag as possible. No more one or two items per bag as most cashiers like to do.
Thanks for getting the word out!
Now if only my city would start offering recycling pickup with the garbage! It's such a pain running to the recycling plant!
L.L. Bean Boat and Tote bags (medium) are great for groceries, in particular. Plus, I think they'll last forever!