ASSESSMENT AS OF: JANUARY 2024
HOW TO GET STARTED
- Incorporate new canvas bags as other bags become unusable
- Find a storage location for your bags - this might even be your car
- Use them in the grocery store, but be careful not to leave them behind - they look similar to paper bags
- Rewax the canvas and patch as needed
EMBRACE
- Won't emit microplastics when disposed of
- Is biodegradable
- Will not stain or leach plastic into food such as produce placed in the bag
AVOID PRODUCT TYPE
Disposable plastic bags or reusable plastic bags
AVOID
- Will inevitably end up in landfill at end of life
- Will stain and tear. Isn't reparable like canvas
- Researchers suggest canvas totes are less sustainable from a CO2 perspective but these studies to no adequately consider end-of-life microplastic generation
Noteworthy Product Attributes
The canvas can be patched and repaired. The canvas can be rewaxed to maintain its waterproof characteristics.
Overall Sustainability Score - 86 / 100
Score Breakdown
Manufacturing (Score - 7/10) - Not made close to the target market
Distribution (Score - 7/10) - Not made close to the target market
Cost (Score - 8/10) - Costs 3X as much as plastic alternatives that may last about as long
Packaging (Score - 10/10) - Comes in eco-friendly paperboard and cardboard packaging
Effectiveness (Score - 10/10) - Effective as a grocery bag and waxed canvas provides some waterproofing
Lifespan (Score - 9/10) - Will likely last many years with proper care and rewaxing
Fun (Score - 10/10) - Looks like a paper grocery bag - fun!
Relevance (Score - 10/10) - Ideally suited for the task at hand
Disposal (Score - 10/10) - Is biodegradable. Just throw it in the compost
Recycling (Score - 5/10) - Not recyclable in most settings. However, there are many cotton and denim recycling programs
