ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

We encourage the re-use and re-cycling of bags. We welcome the use of canvas bags, bags made out of old raincoats, and backpacks to carry shopping home.

We do not want to cause an increase in the number of plastic bags in the world; in fact, we want to reduce the number of bags that are discarded in frustration when they don't open easily. If a bag is the best solution, then it might as well work properly.

We're often asked if our bags are recycleable/biodegradable/etc.

They can be, just as any other bag architecture can. Our architectural solution to the 'opening' problem may also mean greater latitude in materials choice, which would support use of recycled materials.

Biodegradable, vs. recycleable?

In fact, the usual resins used for making bags are highly recycleable, either into bags again or into other products. It is up to us all to support effective recycling.

Furthermore, "biodegradable" has to be followed with the question "biodegradable into what?". If the material merely includes "weak link" molecules that weaken with oxidation or sunlight, so that the material falls apart, is that really biodegradable, or has the single piece of plastic (that could easily be picked up) been turned into a dust that is impossible to remove from the soil? If so, are we sure that dust is harmless? And what is easier to pick up: a large piece of plastic, or half a million specks?

Another issue with "biodegradation" additives is that most are undesirable in the waste stream because they add unpredictability to the performance of the recyled resin.

We view recycling as superior to "weak link" disintegrating products (often misnamed as biodgradable).