Hopefully, everyone out there is doing their part to recycle and reuse. But let’s face it: there are some things that just can’t be treated this way, and as much as we try to minimize them in our lives, they will make their way into our garbage and ultimately, into a landfill.
Here lays the issue (literally): plastic garbage bags. As much as we try to get non-biofriendly items out of our lives, many of us will be throwing out our trash in plastic garbage bags. The worst part of this is that for some of us, me included, garbage and trash must be placed in plastic bags before it will be picked up by the city or contracted waste removers. It’s convenient, to be sure, making it that much easier for trash pick up, when all someone has to do is grab a loaded bag and sling it into the back of a truck.
Well, we can all make a difference here. Although regular plastic bags may take eons to biodegrade, some plastics are actually bio-friendly and make perfect trash bags. Although relatively new technology, they are catching on quickly because they are strong, sturdy, and are safe for the environment.
Eco-Smartbags - If you are a regular BA reader, you may know that I did an actual test of these particular bags, and I loved them! I initially tested them for strength and holding power, and they passed with flying colors. I jammed them with paper and cardboard, and as far as I could tell, they held up as well as any regular plastic bag that you’ll find on the market.
That was about a year and half ago, but what I wasn’t able to determine in my short review was how well they would biodegrade. Well, I was able to check on this bag where I dumped it in 2008, and the bag itself is virtually gone! Wherever the bag touched the ground it had deteriorated to the point that you could not tell there was a bag there. The only thing left intact was the knot that I tied at the top, and even that wasn’t in the best of shape.
Needless to say they work and biodegrade, and because I tested them (and I use them to this day) any bag that was made with the same technology will work equally well for you.
Here are some others to consider.
Biobags - Made of plastic derived from corn, these come in many different sizes.
Stout Ecosafe trash bags - The best thing about these bags is that they are available at Sears and virtually within reach of anyone.
The technology is out there to make plastics biodegrade and bio-friendly, and Because Action speaks louder than words, these options will give you one more choice to go a little more green in your everyday living.
