Here is a list of advantages and disadvantages to the different types of carrier bags, so that you have to hand easy information to make informed choices.
Paper Carrier Bags
Advantages
- Renewable resource
- Widespread recycling
- Biodegrades
- High quality
- High Strength
- Flexibility in manufacture
- High Range of materials and finishes
- Re use of marketing message
- Quality of product
Disadvantages
- High energy to crop, harvest, pulp and mill
- High energy in conversion
- High additive content
- Laminates and ropes do not degrade
- High Energy in distribution
Standard Polythene Carrier Bags
Advantages
- Low Energy Production
- Low Energy Distribution
- Non degradable (no poison)
- Recyclable Perceived low cost marketing
- Long Life Span
- Less Bulk in Landfill
Disadvantages
- Hazardous to life
- Difficult to sort and recycle
- Does Not Degrade
Standard Polythene with Bio Additives Carrier Bags
Advantages
- Reduced Litter
Disadvantages
- Lost material to recycle
- If added to others degrades recyclates
- Additives do not degrade
- Long term effects on wildlife unknown
- Not approved for composting
- Not suitable for long term packaging
- Does not degrade in modern landfills
- Consumer confusion
Organic Biodegradable Polythene Carrier Bags
Advantages
- Genuine compostability
Disadvantages
- High energy to crop and manufacture
- High cost
Cotton Carrier Bags
Advantages
- Compostable
- Long Life
- Recyclable
- High strength
Disadvantages
- Pressure on natural habitats for crops
- Agrochemical use
- High energy to crop and manufacture
- High Energy in conversion and distribution
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3 comments
music says:
January 9, 2012 at 11:26 pm (UTC 1 )
Love your blog!
Alta Sowl says:
December 21, 2011 at 10:41 am (UTC 1 )
Great post!
Debra says:
December 4, 2011 at 5:34 am (UTC 1 )
A good many vaualbles you’ve given me.