Spring is a time for change. Opting for sustainable items is clearly a win for the environment, but eco-friendly pieces also go a long way in elevating your home and personal style.
Whether you’re a mum looking for new ways to spritz up the kitchen or a student wanting to reduce waste, turning over a new leaf and choosing sustainability is better for the planet.
In this guide, we unpack what makes a bag sustainable so that you can make informed choices on your next shopping trip.What are Eco-Friendly Bags Made Of?
Ever seen someone doing their food shop with non-plastic bags, and wonder what they’re made of? These bags are made of material that doesn’t damage the environment such as hemp, cotton, recyclable paper, biodegradable bioplastics, non-woven polypropylene, canvas, and RPET. Unlike plastic bags, these won’t pollute the earth, are a lot more durable, and come in a range of styles and colours, too.
What is The Most Sustainable Fabric?
If you’ve ever purchased fashion online, you’ll know that some fabrics last longer than others. In choosing sustainable fabrics, you’ll be on your way to making a small yet significant difference. Durable, eco-friendly fabrics include recycled cotton, organic cotton, organic linen, organic hemp, cork, organic bamboo, lyocell, econyl, and pinatex.
Fabrics that aren’t as sustainable include nylon, polyester, acrylic, and rayon, so it’s best to avoid them. If you want your bag to hold up during your shopping spree, one of the eco-friendly fabric bags will serve you well. They’re better for the eco-system and the best value for your money. It’s a win-win!
Is Canvas Eco-Friendly?
Canvas is a natural, biodegradable fibre made from linen or cotton, and is completely sustainable when made organically. It’s also vegan, meaning it doesn’t derive from animal-based materials such as leather, fur, feathers, or wool. With canvas, no animals are being exploited, so this definitely results in happier purchasing.
What are NWPP Bags?
An acronym for Non-Woven Polypropylene, these bags feel like canvas fabric and are popular for being biodegradable, clean, affordable, machine-washable, and very appealing to the eye. Why choose any other route that doesn’t help the environment?
Are Polyester Bags Recyclable?
Do you know what material is recyclable and what isn’t? Although there is such as thing as recycled polyester, it generally isn’t biodegradable and can’t be guaranteed to be. Breaking down the product can be a difficult process, and unfortunately, this material can have toxic microfibres. Cotton, wool, and silk are nature’s best friends.
What is a Polypropylene Bag?
These bags are opaque plastic and are made by making use of synthetic polypropylene. Companies such as Coles and Woolworths have adopted these as reusable plastic bags, although they aren’t as reliable as organic-based materials such as cotton. Polypropylene bags aren’t biodegradable or compostable, so if you don’t want to threaten the planet, Biome has a range of options.
Sustainable Bags at Biome
1. Kind Bag Reuseable Extra Large - Gingham
Not only is gingham a great spring pattern to go with any neutral outfit, but this extra large bag is also big enough to fit 25 kilograms of anything you like. Choose this for a warm beachy day, a reliable laundry bag, or your go-to style piece. It’s also made from 12 recycled plastic bottles, so this multi-use bag benefits the environment, too.
2. Beekeeper Parade Makeup Bag Large - Golden Flower
It can be tricky to find a sustainable makeup bag, but Beekeeper Parade are leading the charge. This Golden Flower design allows you to keep your favourite products stored in an eco-friendly way. Whether you’re travelling interstate or visiting a friend, this bag is as beneficial to discarded waste as it is practical.
3. Onya Reuseable Mesh Fruit & Veg Produce Bags - Set Of 8
If you’ve had enough of constantly using tacky supermarket bags for fruit and vegetables, these can carry 2 kilos of produce per bag! As superior shopping bags and more lightweight, you can also use these for herbs, dry grains, laundry bags for delicate pieces, and even as international toiletry bags.
4. The Keeper Organic Cotton String Shopping Bag
Love the bohemian look? These organic cotton string bags go with all summer fashion and are perfect for storing fruit and vegetables that you’ve picked from your fresh supermarket. Not only can this be composted, but meets the Global Organic Textile Standard. You’re supporting a cause that cares for the earth.
5. Onya Reuseable Bulk Food Bag Medium - Aqua
Storing food in glass jars can be satisfying, but have you thought of trying out bulk food bags as well? These bags are pretty in the pantry but also work well for transporting food from the store to your home. Each bag is reusable, made from 4 recycled plastic bottles, BPA-free, and completely non-toxic. You can feel good knowing you’re contributing to a better planet.
6. Rectangle Seagrass Net Bag - Medium
A fan of the open-weave look? This bag has been crafted from seagrass fibres in Northern Vietnam and suits wonderfully any beach day. Whether you want to use it to collect seashells or to place fresh veggies in, this basket is durable for everyday activities, shopping, or storage around the home.
7. Packit Freezeable Grocery Tote Bag - Heather Leopard Navy
If tote bags are your main go-to accessory, these non-toxic poly canvas tote bags can keep fruit and veggies cooler for longer. Freeze overnight with its easy zip closure or use it on long trips for convenience! No need for ice cubes and excess plastic, because this has you prepared for those hot summer days.
8. EcoNaps Day Tripper Wet Bag - Indigo Pinstripe
If you’re a mum who loves all things green and sustainable and you use cloth nappies, this one is for you. This wet bag is leak-resistance, odour-proof, double-pocketed, machine washable, and great for using during pool adventures with your child. At the end of its useable life, you can take this to a textile recycling facility.
