International Plastic Bag Free Day: Replace plastic bags with these 5 sustainable alternatives

While we know plastic bags are one of the most cost-effective and convenient bag options out there, we all can agree they are pretty terrible for our environment. While plastic is generally bad to use because of its numerous environmental implications, single-use plastics are even worse since they are the biggest cause of plastic pollution. Taking the seriousness of the many risks of this plastic plague into account, International Plastic Bag Free Day is celebrated annually on 3rd July with the aim of raising awareness about plastic pollution and urging people to limit their plastic use.

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Eco-friendly alternatives to plastic bags

If you are also looking to adopt a sustainable lifestyle, check out these 5 eco-friendly alternatives to plastic bags that you can easily make the switch to.

1) Paper bags

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Paper bags are the most commonly used substitute for single-use plastic bags nowadays with most big retailers shifting to paper bags. Paper is widely known to be one of the easiest materials to recycle, making these bags the first choice with which to replace plastic bags for many. While paper bags are cheaper to make than other bio-degradable alternatives they are not the sturdiest of options and are susceptible to tear very easily.

2) Jute Bags

Gaining huge popularity in recent years all across the world, jute bags have become a must-have in all households these days. Since they are made from natural fibre, jute bags are a great bio-degradable option and do not release any toxic fumes or gases even when they are burnt. A great reusable option, jute bags are not only extremely durable but they are also very stylish and versatile as they come in a variety of colours and designs.

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3) Cloth bags

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Cloth bags are one of the most sustainable substitutes for plastic bags. Whether you buy one or make one on your own, these versatile reusable bags come in a wide range of fabrics. From muslin to denim, you can select your desired cloth bag depending on your requirements. By opting for these eco-friendly and sustainable bags you can not only help curb plastic pollution but also save money if you do the DIY way and make one for yourself with old clothes.

4) Canvas bags

Another great option, canvas bags make excellent reusable bags since canvas is known to be an extremely durable material which is not prone to much wear and tear. Tote bags made from canvas have become increasingly common and come in a huge range of designs depending upon the purpose of their use. From stylish office bags to simple grocery bags, canvas bags are a great eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags that are great for the environment.

5) Bamboo Bags

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Quickly gaining recognition as a viable contender to plastic bags, bamboo bags are the best option for you if you are looking for something that will last you a long time. Extremely reliable and vastly functional, bamboo bags are made from transforming bamboo fibres into a sturdy weave. Bags made from this weave are a great environmentally-friendly alternative since bamboo demands little water and grows quickly without a need for pesticides and hence does not require a lot of energy to produce.

Going the extra mile by ditching single-use plastic bags and opting for eco-friendly bags that are easy to reuse and recycle will contribute greatly towards dealing with the problem of plastic pollution that our planet is facing. Ultimately, it is our responsibility to protect the environment and leave it in a better state than we found it for our future generations.

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