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Single use plastic bags are not really a problem in the amount of plastic they use, these are something like 5 grams. They are actually better in that regard th
by GuB-42 3y ago
Single use plastic bags are not really a problem in the amount of plastic they use, these are something like 5 grams. They are actually better in that regard than most reusable bags because it takes a lot of reuses to beat that, often more than their typical lifespan.
Where they are a problem however is that they have a tendency to fly away and end up where you don't want them. In the ocean, in nature, littering the city, they are en eyesore, cause problem with some animals, and end up as microplastics everywhere.
Sturdier, paid-for bags may not result in less plastic being used, but it results in less litter, which is good. And yes, it works. Some people will continuously pay their 10 cents, grumble and throw away their bags, but most will do the smart thing and just reuse their bags.
- nonethewiser 3y agoNow compare to paper bags. And account for microplastics.
- simoncion 3y agoNothing beats HDPE. See softcopy page 7 of this report: <https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/291023/scho0711buan-e-e.pdf https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/...> The paper, LDPE, non-woven PP and cotton bags should be reused at least 3, 4, 11 and 131 times respectively to ensure that they have lower global warming potential than conventional HDPE carrier bags that are not reused. The number of times each would have to be reused when different proportions of conventional (HDPE) carrier bags are reused are shown in the table below.