Plastic Bag Alternatives

Although plastic bags make carrying items easier, they cause damage to the environment. According to the EPA, plastic bags never fully decompose. That means that for generations, plastic will overrun landfills. In the process of decomposition, small pieces of plastic can end up in lakes, rivers and oceans, which can harm sea creatures because of their inability to digest plastic. Fortunately, plastic bag alternatives exist and they are not hard to come by.

Lunch Bags

• Instead of using plastic bags, consider taking your lunch to work or school in a reusable lunch bag. These environmental friendly lunch bags are readily found in local department stores and are often insulated, which helps to keep your food fresh. They also come in various sizes and can sometimes include different compartments to place your utensils.

Canvas Bags

• Canvas tote bags are made of cotton and make durable alternatives to plastic bags. These canvas bags are inexpensive and can be found at your local department store. Another option would be to make your own. Making a tote bag is relatively easy and only requires that you sew three sides to two pieces of fabric and add handles. There are patterns available to show you how. If you don't want to try your hand at making your own, take a trip to the Salvation Army or Goodwill and purchase second-hand tote bags or larger bags to carry your groceries instead of using plastic bags.

Nylon Bags

• Nylon bags are another alternative to plastic bags. Nylon bags are strong and come in various colors and their handles make them easier to carry.

Reusable Shopping Bags

• Reusable shopping bags usually cost less than a dollar and can be purchased at your local super market. These bags are made of recycled material and are placed in easily accessible locations, usually around the register as a way to encourage you to use them as opposed to paper or plastic. Their inexpensive cost makes replacing them much easier, as they can wear down over time.