Plastic bag

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Trash bin in Paris

Handle in plastic bag

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Stand-up pouch

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Big bag

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Hemdchentuete

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They have bags of milk too! (6192608782)

Plastic bags are a type of bag made primarily from polyethylene (high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), or polypropylene). They are a common form of packaging for many types of goods and are also used for waste disposal and waterproofing. Due to their durability, lightweight, and low cost, plastic bags have become ubiquitous around the globe, although their environmental impact has led to many calls for regulation, including recycling programs and outright bans.

History

The invention of plastic bags can be traced back to the early 20th century, but it wasn't until the 1950s that they became more widespread. The first popular type of plastic bag was the high-density polyethylene bag, introduced in the United States in 1957. By the 1960s, plastic bags began to replace paper bags as the preferred method of packaging for many retailers, especially grocery stores.

Types

There are several types of plastic bags, categorized by their material and construction:

• High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Bags: Known for their strength and durability, HDPE bags are commonly used in supermarkets.
• Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) Bags: These bags are more flexible than HDPE bags and are often used for produce or as garbage bags.
• Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) Bags: Combining the features of HDPE and LDPE, LLDPE bags offer more stretch and strength.
• Polypropylene Bags: Known for their clarity, heat resistance, and excellent printing surface, these bags are often used for packaging food items and retail products.

Environmental Impact

The widespread use of plastic bags has raised environmental concerns. They are a major source of plastic pollution, particularly in oceans, where they can harm marine life. Plastic bags are not biodegradable; they break down into smaller pieces, becoming microplastics that absorb toxins and continue to pollute the environment. Many countries and regions have implemented measures to reduce the use of plastic bags, including bans, fees for use, and encouraging the use of reusable bags.

Alternatives

In response to environmental concerns, several alternatives to plastic bags have been promoted:

• Reusable bags: Made from materials like cloth or heavy-duty plastic, these bags can be used multiple times.
• Biodegradable bags: These are made from materials that can break down naturally, such as corn starch.
• Paper bags: While they have their own environmental impact, paper bags are considered more biodegradable than plastic bags.

Regulation

Governments around the world have taken steps to regulate the use of plastic bags. These measures include:

• Bans: Some countries have outright banned the use of certain types of plastic bags.
• Fees: Charging for plastic bags at the point of sale encourages consumers to bring their own reusable bags.
• Recycling programs: Encouraging the recycling of plastic bags can help reduce their environmental impact.

See Also

• Waste management
• Environmental impact of plastics
• Sustainable packaging