We all know that the most eco-friendly shopping bag option is neither paper nor plastic: it's bringing your own reusable bag. But which of the bags available is the most eco-friendly?
One excellent – and fashionable – option is this jute "Freedom Bag" produced by Toronto shopping centre Hazelton Lanes. They commissioned their own design from fair-trade bag-maker freeset, with an illustration is by Toronto artist Ryan Johnson. The bags are made of biodegradable jute and have a couple of inside pockets and comfortable, wide handles. Even better, they're made by women in Sonagachi, India, for a fair wage, and proceeds from the bag are going toward a fund for former sex workers in North Calcutta.
A limited amount of Freedom Bags are available from Hazelton Lanes Guest Services (416.968.8680) for $14.95. Other styles, including custom orders, are available from freeset and from Canadian distributor My Fair World.
