When your retail location uses plastic bags, rather than paper ones, it provides a great opportunity to be a bit greener, which is a move that many businesses are working to make. The production of plastic bags consumes 70 percent less energy than it takes to produce paper bags, and the process that is required for recycling one pound of plastic will use 91 percent less energy than what is necessary for recycling one pound of paper.
From traditional plastic thank you bags, to Gusseted Poly Bags, there are a number of options to choose from when it comes to purchasing a plastic bag for use at your retail location.
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
The majority of grocery store bags are composed of HDPE. The characteristics of this bag include the fact that they offer a moderate amount of opacity, more strength than other plastic types of film and will not stretch. Due to their strength and resistance to tearing, HDPE makes the ideal bag for groceries or clothing.
Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE)
This option is less opaque than HPDE and in most cases will not stretch. You will find this type of plastic bag being used for packaging paper products such toilet paper and paper towels.
Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
This type of plastic is typically used to create bags that have a moderate stretch and strength. They typically have a higher level of clarity and used for items such as bread or newspapers. This plastic is also combined with nylon in order to create bubble wrap.
Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)
This type of plastic has the highest stretch consistency and will usually feel tacky to touch while exhibiting a moderated amount of clarity. It is most commonly used for dry cleaning film, thin newspaper bags and stretch wrap.
Recycling Options for Plastic Bags
Each of the plastic bag options are able to be recycled and the resulting applications for these recycled goods include building and construction products, as well as new plastic bags. There are a number of local stores that sponsor a recycling program for plastic bags, making it easy for consumers to do what is responsible.
When you plan to purchase plastic bags for your retail store it is important to consider the exact purpose they will be used for, which will help you determine which option you need.
