Facts About Plastic Grocery Bags

"Paper or plastic?" became a popular American catchphrase in the late 1970s when plastic grocery bags splashed into the grocery scene. Today, the Plastics Industry Trade Association estimates one in four grocery bags is plastic. Although plastic bags have been part of the retail landscape for decades, their use and environmental impact serve as a catalyst for controversy.

Composition

Plastic grocery bags are comprised of polyethylene, a petroleum-based product, and are 100 percent recyclable.

Production

According to the American Chemistry Council, plastic grocery bags use up to 70 percent less energy to produce than paper grocery bags.

Environment

Plastic bags occupy less space in landfills and generate fewer pollutants and greenhouse gasses than paper bags.

Recycling

Although plastic bag recycling is relatively low, over 800 million pounds of plastic are recycled in the United States annually. According to the American Chemistry Council, that number continues to grow.

New Products

Recycled plastic bags are often made into lumber used for benches, decking, fences and new plastic bags.

Resources

• Plastics Industry Trade Association