paper vs plastic bags
Published February 1, 2025
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Choosing the proper packaging is essential. Many businesses often face the dilemma of choosing between paper vs plastic bags.

When starting a business, choosing the proper packaging to suit your needs is essential. Many businesses often face the dilemma of choosing between paper vs plastic bags. In some municipalities and cities in the Philippines, local governments have implemented ordinances requiring paper bags as an alternative packaging to plastic to help reduce pollution. With plastic bags already banned in some commercial areas, understanding the environmental impact of different packaging options is necessary for running an eco-friendly business.

Environmental Impacts of Paper and Plastic Bags

Both paper and plastic bags have their environmental pros and cons. Sustainability packaging plays a key role in making responsible choices when considering options. Here’s a quick look at their impacts:

Paper Bags: Environmental Pros and Cons

paper vs plastic bags

In the paper vs. plastic bags debate, paper bags often seem like the eco-friendly winner. They’re biodegradable packaging for business and are less harmful to the environment. However, their production involves deforestation and consumes a lot more water and energy than when making plastic bags.

Nevertheless, paper bags are still an excellent choice for businesses, especially those with lightweight goods. They’re also popular in grocery stores, boutiques, and cafes and make excellent branding tools since they’re easy to print.

Plastic Bags: Environmental Pros and Cons

paper vs plastic bags

Plastic bags are lightweight, durable, and energy-efficient to produce compared to paper bags. Due to their convenience, around 5 trillion plastic bags are used globally each year. However, they contribute heavily to pollution due to their long decomposition time.

While plastic bags have their drawbacks, they’re still essential for businesses requiring moisture-resistant packaging and transporting heavier loads. Additionally, they’re easier to store since they can be folded without damage, unlike paper bags. 

For a sustainable business in the Philippines, it’s essential to consider both functionality and environmental impact when choosing packaging.

Insights of Consumers About Paper and Plastic Bags

paper vs plastic bags

The choice of paper vs. plastic bags has a clear frontrunner. Surveys show that 93% of consumers believe paper is more sustainable and should be used more for packaging. However, many still rely on plastic bags because of their practicality and durability.

If you’re still unsure what to use for your business, consider encouraging customers to bring their reusable bags to reduce single-use packaging. Opt for plastic bags only as a last resort.

Something Better Than Paper and Plastic Bags

paper vs plastic bags

There’s a new packaging contender in the paper vs. plastic bag showdown. And they’re cassava starch bags! Have you heard of them? These eco-friendly bags are made of cassava starch by Oikos Sustainable Solutions, the first and only brand in the country to have an Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) from DOST.

But that’s not all! Oikos also offers corn bags for your business needs. These packaging options are a great alternative to paper bags because they don’t require deforestation and are both durable and biodegradable. Plus, they’re 100% plastic-free but tough enough to do the job. Check out our products today!