Mandala Laminated Nonwoven Shopping Bag W 13.5” x H 18.5” x G 2”

1. Material Efficiency

The bag is made from nonwoven polypropylene (PP), which is known for its durability and reusability. Nonwoven PP is a thermoplastic polymer that can be melted and reformed, making it a recyclable material. This contributes to reduced waste and a lower environmental impact compared to single-use plastic bags. Reference:

• American Chemistry Council states that polypropylene is 100% recyclable and has a lower environmental impact compared to many other plastics.

2. Reusability

The nonwoven polypropylene material is sturdy, allowing the bag to be reused multiple times. The reuse factor significantly lowers the environmental impact per use compared to single-use bags. Scientific Explanation:

• According to a study by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), a reusable bag needs to be used at least four times to have a lower environmental impact than single-use plastic bags. Nonwoven PP bags often exceed this number, thus contributing to a lower overall carbon footprint.

3. Lower Production Emissions

Nonwoven PP bags have lower carbon emissions during production compared to other materials like cotton. Cotton bags need to be reused many times (often hundreds) to offset the higher carbon footprint from production, water use, and pesticide application.   Reference:

• Environmental Agency (UK) Report on the lifecycle assessment of supermarket carrier bags highlights that nonwoven PP bags have significantly lower carbon emissions during production compared to cotton bags.

4. Energy-Efficient Manufacturing

The manufacturing process of nonwoven PP bags is relatively energy-efficient. The production process of nonwoven fabrics involves the bonding of fibers through mechanical, thermal, or chemical means, which is less energy-intensive than the weaving process of cotton or the production of traditional plastics. Scientific Explanation:

• The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment published a study showing that the energy consumption for producing nonwoven PP bags is considerably lower than for woven bags, contributing to a lower overall carbon footprint.

5. Reduced Waste

Laminated nonwoven PP bags contribute to reduced waste. The lamination process adds a layer of protection to the bag, increasing its lifespan and durability. This means fewer bags are needed over time, reducing the overall material consumption and waste generation. Reference:

• Journal of Cleaner Production: Research shows that enhancing the durability and lifespan of products through lamination and other techniques can significantly reduce waste and environmental impact.

1. Material Production

• Polypropylene Production (Nonwoven Fabric):
  • Nonwoven shopping bags are typically made from polypropylene (PP), a type of plastic.
  • Carbon Footprint of Polypropylene: Producing 1 kg of polypropylene emits approximately 1.55 kg of CO₂-equivalent (CO₂e) emissions.
  • Weight of Bag: Let’s assume the bag weighs about 100 grams (0.1 kg).
  • Material Emissions: $0.1\text{kg}\times 1.55\text{kg CO₂e/kg}=0.155\text{kg CO₂e}$.

2. Lamination Process

• Laminating Material (usually polyethylene or similar):
  • The lamination adds a layer of material, typically polyethylene.
  • Carbon Footprint of Lamination: Assuming the lamination adds around 0.05 kg of material with a carbon footprint of 2.5 kg CO₂e/kg.
  • Lamination Emissions: $0.05\text{kg}\times 2.5\text{kg CO₂e/kg}=0.125\text{kg CO₂e}$.

3. Manufacturing Process

• Energy Use in Manufacturing:
  • The process of converting raw materials into a laminated nonwoven bag requires energy, usually in the form of electricity.
  • Estimated Manufacturing Emissions: For simplicity, assume 0.05 kg CO₂e is emitted during the manufacturing process.

4. Transportation

• Transport from Manufacturer to Retailer:
  • The carbon footprint depends on the distance traveled and the mode of transportation.
  • Assumption: If the bag is transported 1000 km by truck, emitting approximately 0.05 kg CO₂e per km per kg.
  • Transport Emissions: $(0.1+0.05)\text{kg}\times 1000\text{km}\times 0.05\text{kg CO₂e/km/kg}=0.0075\text{kg CO₂e}$.

5. End-of-Life Disposal

• Landfill or Incineration:
  • If the bag is not recycled, it may end up in a landfill or be incinerated.
  • Landfill Emissions: Assuming a minimal additional carbon footprint of 0.01 kg CO₂e for disposal.

Total Carbon Footprint Calculation

Summing up all the components:

1. Material Production: 0.155 kg CO₂e
2. Lamination Process: 0.125 kg CO₂e
3. Manufacturing Process: 0.05 kg CO₂e
4. Transportation: 0.0075 kg CO₂e
5. End-of-Life Disposal: 0.01 kg CO₂e

Total Carbon Footprint: $$0.155+0.125+0.05+0.0075+0.01=0.3475\text{kg CO₂e}$$

Conclusion

The estimated carbon footprint of a Mandala Laminated Nonwoven Shopping Bag is approximately 0.35 kg CO₂e per bag. This calculation is based on assumptions regarding material composition, manufacturing processes, transportation distances, and disposal methods. The actual carbon footprint could vary based on specific data related to these factors.

References

• American Chemistry Council. Polypropylene Recycling.
• United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Reusable Bags and Their Environmental Impact.
• Environmental Agency (UK). Lifecycle Assessment of Supermarket Carrier Bags.
• International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment. Energy Consumption in Nonwoven PP Bag Production.
• Journal of Cleaner Production. Durability and Waste Reduction in Laminated Products.