World Paper Bag Day is observed every year on July 12. The day is dedicated towards spreading awareness about using biodegradable paper bags that are recyclable and made of renewable raw materials instead of plastics.
History of World Paper Bag Day
It is believed that paper bags were manufactured commercially in Bristol, England, starting in 1844. The first paper bag machine was created by American inventor Francis Wolle in the year 1852. Later in 1871, Margaret E. Knight achieved a breakthrough by inventing a machine that could produce flat boxy bottom paper bags. She is popularly known as the “Mother of the grocery bags.”
Charles Stillwell - in 1883 - took one step ahead by having pleated sides incorporated in the paper bag that made it handier. In 1912, Walter Deubener further built up on the Stillwell’s design by annexing a cord and handles to paper bags. So the present-day paper bag that we use is a result of the collective effort of all these great inventors of yesteryears.
Importance of the day
Interestingly enough, paper bags are now increasingly being promoted by high-end brands in their attempt to encourage minimal and sustainable packaging. These paper bags aren’t only eco-friendly, but also add on to the aesthetic quotient of shopping.
The world has awaken to the realities of global warming, environmental pollution and scarcity of resources, and hence, slowly but surely, adopting sustainable lifestyle choices including paper bags. This led people around the world to demand a ban on plastic and now millions of people are using recyclable and reusable paper bags instead of plastic bags.
On World Paper Bag Day, India portal tweets, "Stop bagging the planet - say NO to plastic bags. And say a big yes to paper bags."
NTR Trust tweets, "World Paper Bag day is observed on 12th of July every year across globe. The main objective of this day is to spread awareness about using paper bags instead of plastic to help reduce plastic waste. On this day let's say no to plastic bag and yes to paper bag."