The Benefits of Switching from Plastic Grocery Bags to Reusable Totes

Approximately 500 billion plastic bags are used every year around the world. This poses a significant environmental issue due to the lack of biodegradability of the plastic bags (typically made of low density polyethylene or high density polyethylene). Individuals in the United States use an average of one plastic bag every day. Plastic bags are harmful to the environment due to their often fatal effects on marine life and many organisms. Fortunately, we can significantly reduce the harmful effects of plastic waste on our environment by switching the common use of plastic grocery bags to reusable totes. These totes can often be purchased at the physical grocery store near the checkout area, or online stores (like Amazon or Etsy). Moreover, these reusable totes are very affordable, often starting at $0.50 or $1 per tote. Not only are reusable tote bags affordable and helpful at reducing global plastic waste, but they are also more convenient when moving groceries items because of their stronger durability. This durability ensures zero spillage or holes when transporting groceries, while plastic bags can easily form holes. Reusable bags are easily portable; just store the lightweight bag in your vehicle and carry it into a store.

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Sources:

https://plasticoceans.org/the-facts/#:~:text=Annually%2C%20approximately%20500%20billion%20plastic,bags%20are%20used%20every%20minute.

https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/programs/population_and_sustainability/sustainability/plastic_bag_facts.html#:~:text=Americans%20use%20100%20billion%20plastic,barrels%20of%20oil%20to%20manufacture.&text=Americans%20use%20an%20average%20of%20365%20plastic%20bags%20per%20person%20per%20year.

https://www.ourbeautifulplanet.org/conservation/a-better-way-to-shop-9-benefits-of-using-reusable-grocery-bags/