The 3 most common misconceptions about plastic bags

Plastic bags pose a serious threat to the environment. But is a plastic bag the same as a plastic bag or are there differences? We clear up the most common misconceptions.

Misconception No. 1: Paper bags are environmentally friendly.

Unfortunately, this is not true. Paper bags generally do not have the same load-bearing capacity and tear strength as plastic bags and are not an equivalent substitute in every case. Only a high material input leads to a comparable quality. The production of paper bags requires the use of chemicals and is associated with high energy and water consumption.
The average usage time of a paper bag is only 25 minutes, just like the plastic bag.
The biggest advantage of the paper bag is that it decomposes faster in nature and does not affect animal life to the same extent as plastic bags. However, paper bags have as little place in the landscape as plastic bags. Greater awareness is needed.

Misconception #2: Compostable plastic bags are environmentally friendly.

Compostable plastic bags give the impression that they are made of harmless, natural raw materials and decompose in no time. This is not the case. Although these plastic bags are made from plant-based components, these usually come from conventional agriculture and often contain residues of pesticides and fertilizers. They take a long time to degrade on the compost or in the organic waste garbage can. So it happens that the compost contains not decomposed remains of the bags. In nature, in rivers and lakes, compostable plastic bags also cause a lot of damage. Until they have completely decomposed, they pose just as great a danger to animals as conventional plastic bags.
The environmentally friendly alternative to dispose of food scraps on the compost or in the organic waste garbage can is instead of not using a bag. Without problems, the kitchen scraps can also be transported in a bowl.

Misconception No. 3: Used plastic bags can be used well as garbage bags.

As logical as it sounds, it doesn't make sense to use plastic shopping bags as trash bags. Plastic bags from shopping are stable, very tear-resistant and contain valuable resources. These plastic bags should be used several times if possible belong in the yellow bag after use. Garbage bags have a different texture and composition. They are intended for single use for collecting and transporting residual waste.

If you want to shop in an environmentally friendly way, you should avoid using disposable bags as often as possible. Transport your shopping in reusable carrier bags. By the way, these can also be made very creatively from fabric scraps and old items of clothing. With an upcycling bag like this, you're right on trend!

Forgo the thin bags in the vegetable departments. A banana, grapefruit or melon are perfectly wrapped in their own peel. There is no need for an additional plastic bag.

The so-called shirt carrier bags pose a great danger to animals in nature. Unlike the plastic carrier bags, they are intended for single use and cannot be reused.

New non-packaging stores are opening in many cities, and more and more retailers are also filling their products in small bowls and cans that customers bring along. Join us in saving packaging. Every bag less counts!