The argument over whether plastic Ziploc bags could ever be considered eco-friendly would probably go on for about 50 blog posts. And I’d probably be called all kinds of names if I suggested that Ziploc’s new line of bags is green, so I won’t do that. Instead, I’ll just tell you about them and you can decide.
The new line from disposable baggie leader Ziploc is called evolve. The evolve bags are lighter than the traditional Ziploc bag. They use 25% less plastic and are made (sort of) with wind energy. Keep reading for more on that.
I was a little confused about why all of Ziploc’s bags aren’t made with wind energy, but a visit to their website cleared a few things up. First of all, the bag isn’t made with 100% wind energy. According to the Ziploc website, for their evolve brand, they purchase “approximately 50% of the estimated energy involved in manufacturing Ziploc evolve in the form of renewable energy to be put back on the electrical grid.” In other words, they make these bags the same way, but just buy energy credits from a partner to help offset production. If you didn’t read the small print, you’d miss that detail.
The carton which holds the Ziploc evolve bags is made with 100% recycled paperboard with a minimum 35% post-consumer content.
You may wonder why the evolve bags are made with only 25% less plastic, but I’m guessing they wouldn’t be strong enough with less plastic. I put an apple into one of the Ziploc evolve sandwich bags and tossed it around. The bag held up better than I thought it would. I got a few tosses in before the bag tore. Obviously, it’s not going to be as strong as the traditional Ziploc bag, but for normal uses, I’m guessing it’s probably fine. I only tried the sandwich bag, but Ziploc also makes evolve storage bags.
I’m glad Ziploc is taking some steps toward becoming more sustainable, but I still think that there far greener (and more economical) options for food storage than a plastic bag. ReusableBags.com has several choices for you, including the Kids Konserve Food Cozy or the ACME Snack Bag. For larger items, I like Pyrex containers with BPA-free lids.
If you use plastic bags for food storage, are you going to try evolve?
(Image by Peggy Rowland)
Post from: Blisstree