The Rising Popularity of Reusable Bags

by Sudipta Majumder The new era of marketing: Digital marketing

According to studies, approximately 500 billion plastic bags are used around the globe each year. Each time we step out of the home, we end up returning with a plastic bag in most cases. Vegetables, monthly grocery, branded clothes, children toys, or food delivery – every type of consumer good comes in a plastic bag. On an average, a plastic bag is used for not more than 12 minutes. Single use plastic bags are one of the leading causes of plastic pollution in the world.

Plastic is non-biodegradable. They cannot be recycled easily. With the world becoming more environmentally responsible, people have started looking for alternatives to plastic bags. This is why reusable bags have become so popular today. These include jute shopping bags, canvas bags, cotton bags, and even bags made of paper. These reusable bags are made of sustainable materials and can be recycled easily.

Reusable bags are increasingly gaining in popularity. Some of its main advantages are:

Biodegradable

Paper, jute, cotton, canvas – all these materials used to make reusable bags are biodegradable in nature. Being made of natural fibers, these bags break down in the natural environment. A plastic bag takes more than 1000 years to decompose. In contrast, personalized jute bags can decompose within a span of two years.

Recyclable

Discarded plastic bags create a burden on the environment. They are difficult to recycle. Reusable bags, made of natural textile like jute or canvas, are easy to recycle. When these bags are no more in use, they can be recycled after disposal.

Durable

Reusable bags such as cotton, jute or canvas bags are made of strong durable textile. Plastic bags, especially polythene bags, can tear off easily. Reusable bags are stronger and can be used roughly on daily basis. A jute or canvas bag will not rip off on a sharp edge. They can be used for a long time.

Easy to carry

Since most reusable bags are made of cotton or jute, the bag handle is ergonomic. It does not put a strain on our hands even when the load is heavy. Even when jute shopping bags are full to capacity, they can be carried easily. Canvas bags are often used as backpacks because of its easy carrying capability.

Fashionable

Reusable bags made of cotton, canvas, and jute are quite popular nowadays, especially among the younger generation. They are commonly used as shopping bags, totes, handbags, or even as gifting items. Many young college students use personalized jute bags with attractive designs as a style statement. Tote bags made of cotton are a fashion accessory. Canvas backpacks are also quite popular.

Cheaper option

Reusable bags are cheaper in the long term. Some retail shops charge extra for a plastic shopping bag. By carrying a reusable bag with you, one can save money. Reusable bags can be used for multiple purposes, like for grocery shopping or for carrying lunch to the office. Cotton or canvas bags can be washed easily, thus, they can be reused as many times as wanted. A jute bag is said to be for life because of its durability.