Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Plastic Bags - By: Mark Yokoyama

Recently “going green” has evolved from a trend to a seemingly new social order. As people become more aware of how their actions directly impact the environment they are switching to more sustainable practices—and businesses are following suit. Since every person’s actions directly impact the environment, it’s important to encourage your employees to reduce their carbon footprints.

It doesn’t have to be a grandiose gesture-- simply switching from plastic to reusable bags is an easy way to transition into the green movement. Giving your employees branded reusable bags encourages them to be conscious about the waste they produce and gives you a reputation of caring for the environment. And because these bags won’t be disposed of, your business gains exposure with each use.

Many assume that being eco-friendly automatically limits your options on what you can give, but this simply isn’t the case. It’s important to consider your recipients’ tastes and habits when choosing the right promotional gift, eco-friendly or otherwise.

Lunch Bags
If your employees always bring a bagged lunch to work, consider giving them a custom lunch bag to eliminate the waste associated with paper and plastic. These insulated bags will show your employees you care about their lunch being the perfect temperature while eliminating any excuses they may have to not go green. Lunch bags have a large imprint area, so you can include an environmentally friendly message to keep them encouraged, or your company logo to constantly remind them what inspired them to make eco-friendly changes in their lives.

Non-Woven Totes
Non-woven grocery totes are great for employees with families. These bags are spacious enough to hold groceries for an entire family and eliminate the need to consume paper and plastic grocery bags. Non-woven shopping totes are similar to grocery totes, but are typically wider and less deep. Although they can’t withstand as much weight, they are still useful for avoiding waste from paper and plastic bags on trips to the mall. These bags don’t have to be exclusively for purchases, either—their size makes them perfect for family outings like picnics or beach days. By giving a non-woven tote, you’re providing a great opportunity for your employees to open their homes to your brand.

Drawstring Backpacks and Jute Totes
If your employees lead active lifestyles, consider giving them drawstring backpacks. They’re typically made of nylon so they’re weather resistant, and the straps make it easy to take along on a bike ride. For those who prefer water sports, try giving a jute tote. Jute is an organic fiber, similar to hemp, so it’s sturdy and durable. Its construction makes it perfect to take to the beach or on a boat, and the bags are spacious enough to hold towels and sunscreen. Whenever your employees take these branded bags out, they’ll be getting more publicity for your business!

With paper and plastic bags, people use them once and then throw them away. Even if they’re branded, their reach is limited—but their environmental impact as they sit in a landfill is not. By customizing eco-friendly bags for your employees, you’re giving them the necessary tools to take better care of the environment and pride in your business. Take this opportunity to minimize environmental impact while maximizing the visibility of your brand.

About the Author

Mark Yokoyama is Director of Marketing for ePromos Promotional Products, Inc., one of the largest promotional product and corporate gift distributors in the US. This article is copyright protected.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Mark-Yokoyama/54503

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