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Looking after the environment is the responsibility of all of us, so it’s important that we all do the best we can. This means switching to renewable energy, turning down the thermostat, and decreasing wastage are things that we should all be thinking about. However, when running a business, there are even more things that you need to consider. Takeaway bags are something that is vital to your business, but they may be damaging the planet without you even realising it. So, keep reading and find out how you can make them more environmentally friendly!
First things first, you need to avoid plastic wherever possible. You might think that using cardboard bags with little plastic handles or windows is a good switch, but really, it could be causing more issues than you know. Most plastic can’t be recycled whereas cardboard can. When this is the case, people are much more likely to just throw it in the bin for convenience rather than try and separate the different materials and put them into different bins. So, try to avoid any plastic wherever possible, especially the ones that can’t be recycled.
Speaking of recycling, you want to go for takeaway bags that are fully recyclable. You’ll be going through them at quite a rapid pace, so if you think about how many of them will end up in the landfills, it’s quite startling. Instead, always go for types that are easily recycled and don’t have to go to a specialist plant to be treated. This will make people forgo the recycling part, as nobody wants to have to travel just to put one takeaway bag in the bin. Opt for kraft paper or cardboard bags instead, as these can be recycled multiple times and will degrade naturally if they do end up in the bin by mistake.
Some takeaway bags can be both recyclable and bio-degradable which is one of the best types you can get. This means that they’ll break down naturally in the environment and won’t emit any harmful chemicals either. This is what happens when plastic is left to rot away in landfills, and it massively damages the eco-system. Bio-degradable takeaway bags are a great way to protect the planet and stop landfills being filled up with plastic. You can also get compostable bags which can be used in your own compost bins. These naturally compost and provide nutrients to the soil they’re in, making them a great alternative to plastic. You’re al
While it can be tempting to buy loads of cheap takeaway bags online from other countries, you’re doing a lot more damage than good in the long run. Sourcing anything from another country means an increased amount of CO2 emissions being released for your parcel to be shipped and delivered. Instead, try seeing if there are any local companies that sell takeaway bags so that you can decrease your carbon footprint. You’ll also be supporting your local community which is what helps keep the earth moving forward and not extracting resources from places where we can’t replenish them ourselves. So, try going local for your takeaway bags, and you’ll be able to make a massive change.
Caring for the planet takes a lot more than simply switching the light off when you leave the room. In fact, it’s changes like moving towards sustainable takeaway bags that will really make a difference. Reducing the amount of non-recyclable rubbish in landfills is crucial if we want to keep the earth healthy, so it might be time to reassess the ones you’re currently using. You’ll be surprised at how many better options that are out there!
