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Below you can find a list of companies that supply alternatives to plastic bags
right across Australia.
Important note - This list provides a sample of alternative suppliers
only and does not indicate endorsement by the Australian Government, Clean Up
Australia and the Australian Retailers Association. We strongly recommend
asking any supplier the questions listed on this page to ensure they use
appropriate business, labour and environmental practices before purchasing any
products.
Are you a supplier wanting to be listed on this page? If so, please click here
| Paper Bags |
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| Calico Bags |
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| Polypropylene or 'Green'
Bags |
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| Biodegradable starch based
bags |
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| Jute bags |
- MJK Traders - (02) 8814 8111.
Provide jute bags in a range of colours.
- Earth Bags – 0431 633 375 or via www.earthbags.com.au
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| Hessian bags |
- Pope Packaging - (03) 9329 8699 or via www.popes.com.au
(offices also in QLD, NSW, WA, SA)
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| Polyester |
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| Hemp |
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| Other carry bags |
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Choosing an ethical supplier
When you're looking for an alternative bag supplier, there are some important
questions you need to ask. If a company can't or won't answer these questions,
consider taking your business elsewhere.
Click on questions for more info
| 1. |
What is
their alternative made of? |
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E.g. polypropylene, cotton, jute, paper etc. Investigate further if a supplier says their product is made of 'cloth' - they may be trying to convince you the material is natural fibre, when in fact it may be synthetic. |
| 2. |
Where is
the product manufactured? |
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A number of alternative bags are made overseas. This doesn't mean you should refuse to purchase the product - it just gives you a context, particularly for some of the questions below. Be careful of companies trying to pass their product off as 100% Australian made when this may not be the case. |
| 3. |
What kind
of employment practices are used to make the product? |
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E.g. does the company use child or forced labour? If the factory runs 24 hours, how long are shifts and break periods? Does the company comply with International Labour Organisation standards? Suppliers should not be selling products made using child/forced labour or under poor working conditions. The supplier should be able to provide evidence of working conditions, for example, a signed statement on letterhead from the manufacturer. |
| 4. |
Is the
manufacturing process environmentally sound? |
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E.g. does the company try to minimise the amount of natural resources used during production? How does the company manage its waste? Are off-cuts reused or recycled? Are heavy metal or toxic dyes used? Does the company try to conserve energy and water in production? |
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