Tips to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle Plastic Bags: Reuse

Tips to Reuse Plastic Bags

A lot goes into making a plastic bag, including raw materials (plastic film), energy, and oil. However, all that would be for nothing if they are only used once and then thrown away! Unfortunately, that is one of the main reasons why plastic bags are contributing more towards waste generation than any other item.

One of the simplest ways to reduce waste is to reuse what’s already here. Here are a few ideas that will help you reuse plastic bags:

Reuse Them for Their Initial Purpose

When you go to shop for the groceries, take a few plastic bags with you so they can be used to bag your groceries. Ensure you do not accept new ones until you have made the most out of what’s available.

Once the plastic bags have been reused as many times as possible, return them to the grocery store to be recycled. Most stores have containers that take plastic bags and recycle them for you.

Turn the Bags into Bin Liners

Replace trashcan liners in your bedrooms, office and bathrooms with plastic bags. This is one of the easiest ways to reuse plastic bags. So keep them anywhere you have a trashcan. You can even keep some in the laundry room to separate the pocket trash found in clothes.

To Give Stuff Away

Whenever your folks are borrowing a few items from you, offer them a plastic bag because they will be able to carry those items even easier. Do the same when delivering gifts or food to other people.

Separate Stuff in the Freezer

Plastic bags can be used to separate different food items in the freezer. This will allow you to move things quicker. For example, you will only have to grab 2 or 3 plastic bags instead of 15 or 20 Ziploc ones.