M&S replaces plastic bags for life with paper version
The food and clothing retailer said the new paper bags are now available in every one of its UK stores.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Marks & Spencer has replaced plastic bags for life with paper carrier bags in an attempt to reduce its impact on the environment.
The food and clothing retailer said the new Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper bags are now available in every one of its UK stores.
A “strong, robust” bag will be available to people taking home their food shop while a “simpler” one will be on offer in its clothing section.
They are capable of carrying more than 15kg or six four-pint bottles of milk and can be reused more than 100 times, the company said.
On the odd occasion when we all need to reach for one more bag, we’re pleased to be offering a more sustainable option for customers
Natural resin applied during the manufacturing process makes them water resistant. They can also easily be folded into a backpack and can also be placed in home recycling bins.
A team from the University of Sheffield assessed their environmental impact before launch and the bags are manufactured using renewable energy at a hydro-powered paper mill in Scandinavia.
M&S director of corporate affairs Victoria McKenzie-Gould said in a blog post: “We now have a solution that is better environmentally and which helps customers looking to make small changes to reduce their environmental footprint.
“For the vast majority who already reuse their own bags, which remains the most sustainable option, not a lot will change.
“But on the odd occasion when we all need to reach for one more bag, we’re pleased to be offering a more sustainable option for customers.”
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.