This Briefing Note was originally written by Kirsty Bell and Suzie Cave and published by Northern Ireland Assembly – Research and Library Service on 23rd February 2011.
“This Briefing Note looks at the environmental impact of different types of carrier bags – cloth, paper and plastic. Their impact is compared based on four categories: decomposition, the manufacturing process, their reusability and their recyclability.“
The overall conclusion of the Briefing Note, based on recent life-cycle assessments, challenges the common assumption that non-plastic alternatives are inherently better. This calls for greater consideration on full life cycle analysis of any materials used.
Industrial Packaging Limited manufactures a range of flexible packaging & labelling solutions. We also promote and share research on life cycle assessments, plastic innovation and general environmental considerations. Read more here.