Polyeteenivaahdot

Polyeteenivaahdot, commonly known as polyethylene bags or plastic shopping bags, are lightweight, thin, and flexible plastic bags made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). These bags are widely used for carrying groceries, produce, and other small items due to their durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. They are produced through a process called blow molding, where molten polyethylene is extruded into a tube and inflated into a bubble, which is then flattened and cut into individual bags.

Polyethylene bags are lightweight, which makes them convenient for consumers, but they also contribute significantly to environmental pollution. Due to their non-biodegradable nature, they can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, often ending up in landfills, oceans, or littering natural landscapes. This has led to growing concerns about their ecological impact, including harm to wildlife and marine life, as well as microplastic pollution.

In response to these environmental issues, many countries and regions have implemented bans or restrictions on the use of single-use polyethylene bags. Alternatives such as reusable cloth bags, biodegradable bags, or paper bags have been promoted as more sustainable options. Some manufacturers have also begun producing bags made from recycled materials or plant-based plastics to reduce reliance on traditional petroleum-based polyethylene.

Despite their environmental drawbacks, polyethylene bags remain a practical choice for many due to their strength, affordability, and versatility. Efforts to improve recycling infrastructure and increase public awareness about waste reduction continue to be key strategies in mitigating their impact.