quote:

Originally posted by Emma813:
Plastic bags: The alternative

• As a concerned member of society regarding our obsessive and irrational use of plastic bags, and the subsequent damage they cause both to our earth and its living inhabitants, I explored the realistic alternatives to the plastic carrier bag.

• I started 2 years ago using the eco friendly bags available on the market. Although I had good intentions to replace the plastic bags with eco bags, I was always leaving them behind at home. I am genuinely committed to incorporating an alternative into my life, but was simply unable to remember my eco bags when it really mattered.

• My criticisms of the traditional eco bags are they are BIG, BULKY & NOT PARTICULARLY HARD WEARING.

• I need something that is COMPACT, DURABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT.

• IT ALSO NEEDS TO LOOK GOOD! It is important that my alternative not only fits in for the task of the supermarket shopping but also is not out of place when making high street purchases!

• Therefore rationally speaking, the only way forward is to consider the use of alternative products made out of non biodegradable materials. The nature of this material means it is extremely durable, compact enough for my pocket/handbag, lightweight and hardwearing; unlike the eco bags!

• To successfully encourage the UK population to replace plastic bag usage and integrate an alternative into their daily routine, it is essential the alternatives are ‘convenient & easy’. Most people do not like change, especially when it is a major inconvenience to them! I have bought so many eco bags and they simply do not stand the task I need them for!

• I have been testing a plastic bag alternative called Fizbag for the last 6 months, and it not only does the job but looks just as good as the moment I bought it; something that cannot be said for the traditional eco bags!

• Think rationally, sensibly & positively. Although in an ideal world I would be using a biodegradable bag, Fizbag’s pro’s certainly out weigh the cons. There are ways in which we can take responsibility ourselves in the recycling of them;

1. Firstly, make sure the provider such as my suggested Fizbag, assure they take responsibility for their recycling of expired products. The material can be used to make dog beds and doormats.
2. I could use them to make painting tabards for my children or donate them to the local school for the same use; both of which require very little effort!. When they become shabby they could be used to store things in, or encourage the children to use them for art projects. The list is actually endless!

• I simply do not see how large, bulky and potentially tatty eco bags can be effective within our busy and demanding lifestyles; forgetting them is a very real problem amongst many!
• I chose Fizbag over its competitors as they are a UK based family business available both online at www.fizbag.com and other retail outlets across the UK. Gordon Brown says it could take 2 years to completely ban the plastic bag in Britain, if we all bought a Fizbag today they could all be banned NOW!