Which One is the Best Paper or Plastic Bags?

There is no denying that customers have become eco-conscious like never before. They prefer to buy from green-minded companies and try to minimize their carbon footprint.

When it comes to shopping, bags are a must-have. Plastic bags carry groceries, apparel, shoes, electronics, toys, and much more. Moreover, stylish paper is perfect for packing gifts and luxury items.

But the point is, which one is a more sustainable packaging solution? In this blog, we have listed the pros and cons of plastic and paper bags. Let us hop into the details.

Perks of Ordering Plastic Bags

Plastic bags have been a potential packaging solution for decades. It is widely used across the globe for all the right reasons.

Cost-Effectiveness

Anything you buy in bulk is cost-effective. It reduces the price per unit. But, when it comes to paper and plastic bags, the latter is a cheap option.

• Waterproof

No one likes to get their hands dirty or wet. The water-repellent properties of plastic bags make them perfect for packing liquids or steamy food.

• Lightweight

Plastic bags are lightweight compared to paper bags. They are easy to carry. Moreover, the bulk quantities are shipped at a low price.

• Space-saving

It is great to know that plastic bags are squeezable and foldable. It takes up less space and minimizes clutter.

• Energy Efficient

Plastic manufacturing requires less energy and generates less waste. On the other hand, paper bags take a toll on potential resources.

Disadvantages of Ordering Plastic Bags

There was a time when plastic bags were used for packing food, groceries, apparel, and cosmetics. But, over time, environmentalists realized its potential harm. It helped us understand the debate between paper and plastic bags. 

It is difficult to recycle and takes years to photodegrade. But that’s not an issue. It breaks down into toxic particles and contaminates the soil and waterways.

Hence, if we begin to list the cons of plastic bags, one article won’t be enough. Let us take a look at the following:

• Threat to the Environment

Plastic bags stay in the environment for thousands of years. Recycling is difficult and takes a toll on the environment and budget. Even if it photodegrades, the tiny particles get mixed into the soil and water. As a result, it increases land and water pollution.

• Loss of Biodiversity

Marine life is badly affected by the plastic bags. It suffocates the oceans, lakes, and rivers. The worst part is that thousands of turtles, seals, and seabirds die either due to the ingestion of plastic bags or entanglement.

• Increased Landfill

Plastic degradation is a slow process that breaks down through the process of photodegradation. It takes years and years for plastic to be recycled. It is a time-consuming process, thus increasing the landfill.

• Air Pollution

It is not easy to get rid of plastic bags. Even if it is burned, toxic substances and chemicals are released into the atmosphere. As a result, it penetrates the soil, sits on the plant, and is inhaled by humans and animals. Are paper bags better than plastic bags? Yes!

• Expensive Process

Do you know that recycling is more expensive than manufacturing new plastics? Yes, that is true. Plastic recycling is not an option. Collecting, sorting out, transporting, and reprocessing the plastic takes a lot of time.

• Unappealing Packaging Design

Although plastic bags are available in a variety of sizes, colors, and designs, that doesn’t make them versatile packaging. It lacks an X factor and is not visually appealing.

Advantages of Ordering Paper Bags

Worldwide, brands, suppliers, and consumers have switched to custom paper bags. It highlights the importance of cardboard and kraft bags.

Moreover, the recent ban on plastic use speaks to the potential hazards of plastic bags. Thus, paper bags have an edge over plastic bags for all the right reasons.

• Follows 3R Rule

Paper bags have created a buzz in the packaging industry for their incredible properties. It is reusable, recyclable, and reducible. Regardless of the size, style, or printing, all the bags are 100% compatible.

• Time-Saving Process

Unlike plastic, paper bags degrade within a few months. It takes less time and gives excellent results.

• Unique Style Statement

Paper bags are a game-changing packaging solution. It is more than a storage container. You can transform it into a beautiful bag with customized add-ons. Give your shopping bags a stylish look with ribbons, handles, foil stamping, spot UV, or full-colored printing.

• Non-Hazardous

Cardboard and kraft bags are environmentally safe. It poses no threats to humans, marine life, or wildlife. It is free of harmful chemicals, allergens, or toxins. Besides, paper bags are a great alternative to plastic bags when it comes to packing toys. No chance of entanglement, choking, or suffocation.

• Unlimited Customization

Cardboard bags are a great way to channel your creativity. You can print any color, text, artwork, or design. This is just the beginning. Moreover, paper bags are customizable to any size, style, or quantity. Not to forget you can enhance it with beautiful embellishments.

• Potential Brand Marketing Tool

Make your brand famous with our cost-effective marketing strategies. Yes, we are talking about paper bags with the logo design. It forms brand affinity and tells the consumers and competitors that you are here to stay!

• Versatile Packaging Design

Do you know what the different types of paper bags are? Some popular styles include shopping bags, SOS bags, bakery bags, flat bags, wax paper bags and scotchban bags. It is grease-resistant and waterproof, and its unique properties make it perfect for packing apparel, food, cosmetics, and electronics.

What are the Negatives of Ordering Paper Bags?

Now, let us shed some light on the disadvantages of paper bags. It will help us decide which one is a better packaging option.

• Deforestation

It is a fact that paper comes from cutting trees. It results in deforestation and leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.

• Energy-Exhaustive Process

When it comes to energy consumption, plastic bags are in the winning position. Paper bags consume four times more energy compared to plastics.

• High Transportation Costs

Paper bags are heavier and take up more storage space. In contrast, plastic bags are lightweight and squeezable.

• Poor Strength

Cardboard and kraft bags can’t carry heavy items. As a result, the bags get ripped apart and crumble, eventually losing shape and texture.

• NOT Waterproof

Paper bags are not suitable for packing liquids or steamed food. It is not lined with water barrier coatings. Thus, the cardboard and kraft bags get soggy and wet. Moreover, there is a high chance of the bag bursting or rupturing.

Final Thoughts

Now it is time to wind up the plastic vs. paper bag debate and decide which is greener. Both are incredible packaging solutions in their own way. After analyzing paper vs plastic bags facts, we conclude that the latter is a more sustainable option.

Cardboard and kraft bags are 100% planet-friendly. It is free of toxins and harmful chemicals. It is versatile and is perfect for packing groceries, gifts, electronics, and toys. The best part is that it is user-friendly. The bags are lightweight, handy, customizable, and pose no threats to kids, adults, or animals.

Are paper bags better? Of course! Although its production, printing, and transportation costs are high compared to plastic bags,. But still, paper bags have an edge because of their environmentally friendly properties.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Where can I buy paper bags?

Ans: Urgent Boxes is the one-stop solution for all your needs. We provide eco-safe and versatile paper bags at the best price. In addition, we offer limitless customization, digital mockups, and market-competitive pricing.

Q2. When were paper bags invented?

Ans: The first paper bags were invented by Francis Wolle in the 1850s.

Q3. Is it more environmentally friendly than plastic?

Ans: Yes, paper bags are made from 100% eco-safe stock. Kraft and cardboard bags are biodegradable, reusable, and recyclable. Also, the surface laminates, finishes, and decorations are also planet-friendly.

Q4. Are paper or plastic bags better for groceries?

Ans: Certainly, paper bags are better than plastic bags for all the good reasons. It is versatile, handy, and eco-safe.

Q5. Why should we switch to paper bags?

Ans: Paper bags are more than just a storage container. You can upgrade it into a fashionable bag with custom add-ons. We offer top-quality digital printing, stunning add-ons, surface coatings, and laminates. Our bags are attractive, durable, functional, and cost-effective.