Cloth bags need of the hour: PAU experts

Manav Mander

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, July 4

Whether we accept it or not, but carry bags hold a great importance when we go for shopping as they help in carrying various articles. But nowadays, many activists are supporting the view that poly bags should be replaced with jute or cloth bags. Experts also feel that these bags are environment friendly.

According to the experts from Punjab Agricultural University, cloth or jute bags have emerged as the best available option among all choices available. They feel these bags are need of the hour to save environment.

“Use of both plastic and paper bags have their own implications. Plastic bags are very hazardous for the environment and paper bags consume the life of so many trees which have other optimum uses,” said Surabhi Mahajan, Department of Apparel and Textile Science, College of Home Science, PAU.

Apart from the plastic and paper bags, the third option that is available is jute or a cloth bag. According to the experts from the Punjab Agricultural University these are the best available option when it comes to carry bags.

“Cloth or jute bags are an eco-friendly substitute to the problem of using plastic and paper bags. These are thicker and more durable and can be made easily at home. Time has come to say good bye to the plastic and paper bags and start making and using eco-friendly cloth carry bags. It is a part of our social responsibility also towards saving the environment. In fact, this kind of manufacturing of cloth bags can be easily taken as enterprise by the rural women who have stitching knowledge and sewing machine at their disposal,” said Vandna Gandotra, Associate Professor, Department of Apparel and Textile Science, College of Home Science, PAU.

Advantages of cloth bags

• More durable
• Reusable as can be washed 
• No environmental threat
• More spacious and sturdy
• Cost-effective 

Major disadvantages of plastic bags

• Lead to landfills
• Block drains, litter streets and contaminate water bodies
• Are non-biodegradable and do not decompose in the environment
• Choke animals such as cows and dogs

Problems of paper bags 

Paper is biodegradable and is not a health hazard to animals and environment and other creatures. But it is used in making currency and stationary items. Therefore, using paper for making carry bags is not a good idea according to experts

Steps for making cloth bags at home by experts

• According to the size of the carry bag required, cut two pieces of fabric such that all sides have at least 1” of seam allowance.
• Stitch the three sides from the inside of the fabric and turn the bag inside out
• The top side can be finished using a facing, lace or zipper can be attached for finishing and closing the carry bag
• Cut two narrow strips of a considerable length of the same material or a contrasting material and finish the edges. Stitch one strip on each side of the bag at the centre, so that one can hold a jute bag with firm handles. The length of the handle can be varied and depends upon one’s convenience.