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The Eco-bag project is an ongoing non-profit-no-loss activity of SAGES. We have been producing the SAGES foldable Ecobags even before the Government of Himachal Pradesh imposed a strict ban on polybags. The Eco-bags are appreciated by the public and are in great demand. SAGES has sold about more than 5,000 bags so far, and we encourage other groups to produce similar shopping bags as their own projects, as we believe that polybag pollution can be tackled only through wide public participation. This Eco-bag project is a brain-child of Mrs. R. Sukumaran . Mrs. R. Sukumaran is one of the senoir most members of SAGES.
Advantages of SAGES Ecobag – A lesser evil, although nonbiodegradable.
- Environment-friendly: Each bag can reduce the use of about 5,000 plastic/paper shopping bags during its life of 10 years or more (For example, some vegetables can be put directly into the bag, saving paper bags).
- Compact and user-friendly: Light weight, stain resistant and easy to wash and dry, as it is made of nylon or similar umbrella cloth. It is convenient to carry in a purse or pocket when folded into a pocket size (4.5” x 4.5”).
- Strong and long-lasting: Far stronger than the average non-woven fabric bags currently in wide circulation, and particularly suited for grocery shopping.
Polythene carry bags have been banned in many states of India, but with varying degrees of success. Shopping bags made of durable and easy-to-maintain fabric can have a major impact in reducing plastic/paper use.
We would be most happy to share our experience in the bag production with NGOs and self-help groups that decide to adopt it. A limited number of free sample bags are also available. Write to sagesecobag@gmail.com.
As most of the SAGES members are aware, SAGES foldable Ecobags have been very well received by the public in Shimla and elsewhere.
The Ecobags are currently sold for Rs100/- (straps supporting the bottom) during the Flower Show and also at the following shops (although the production often cannot keep up with the demand), who are assisting us in marketing without taking any commission.
Ram Chander Reva Nand, 60 Lower Bazaar, Shimla-171001
Ladies' Corner, Sood Complex, BCS Market, New Shimla-171009
To make a greater environmental impact, I request SAGES members to organize production and sales of Ecobags in their localities, and also netizens to blog about its usefulness* so that many others in various parts of the country will start similar projects.
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By the way, Yale University scientists are reportedly looking at microbes that can biodegrade synthetic substances. They discovered in Ecuador a fungus called Pestaloptiosis microspora which can subsist on polyurethane alone. Until someone finds a microbe that can efficiently degrade polyethylene, I guess we have to resort to reusable less harmful alternatives.
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