According to a 2019 report by the World Bank, the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions every year. That’s actually more than the combined emissions of all international flights and shipping operations combined. And, in less than 10 years, the fashion industry’s GHG emissions are predicted to increase to more than 50%.

So, since it looks like the fashion industry will need more time to become fully sustainable, ordinary people should stand up and take the next step to preserve the planet. And what better way to start off than by using a sustainable jute tote bag to carry the shopping instead of those wasteful plastic bags!

Jute fiber is 100% biodegradable and recyclable, and it does not generate toxic gases when burnt. That makes jute tote bags among the most environmentally friendly accessories around. Check out the incredible line of jute tote bags available online at Amala Earth to make a difference to the planet today!

Cotton & Jute Bag | Handcrafted Tote | Beige

Is jute really more sustainable than cotton?

Yes. Just like hemp and bamboo, jute combats the negative impacts of cotton production since it needs less water and fertilisation to flourish.

In addition, a jute tote bag is not just more eco-friendly than a cotton tote bag, but it is also stronger than one made of cotton. As cotton fibres are fragile and soft, they tend to fray easily, making them more prone to rips. Jute, on the other hand, withstands friction and weight, so if tinned items or bottled goods are on your shopping list, a bag made of jute will hold you in good stead compared to one made of cotton.

Understanding the usage of materials is crucial when it comes to making sustainable purchases. Not all natural materials are created equally. Growing jute uses much less water and fertiliser than what is required for growing cotton.

Cotton & Jute Bag | Natural Material Tote | Multicolor

Six reasons to choose sustainable jute bags

• Jute is versatile. It can easily be woven with other natural fibres and fabrics, which can lead to some really cool bag designs. Check out the wide collection of jute bags on Amala Earth, as well as clutches, vanity kits, laptop sleeves, pouches, and a whole lot more.

• Jute is biodegradable. The fibre degrades biologically in about a year, which means there is hardly any environmental impact to disposing of jute. It is compostable too. So, flaunting that jute tote bag also serves to show your commitment to helping the Earth.

• Jute is strong. It is mainly made of cellulose and lignin, the principal components of plant and wood fibre respectively, which is what makes it strong. Jute does not cause any irritation to the skin, and is moisture and heat-resistant.

• Jute is resilient. The fibre is resilient to wear and tear, weather, transport, and more. That means your jute tote bag isn’t just strong enough to fight pollution, but it is durable enough to use for practically any purpose! Jute bags are pretty much maintenance-free. All you need to do to care for your bag is wash it by hand in cool water using a mild detergent.

• Jute can breathe, which means jute bags aren’t likely to attract mould even when not in use. Also, the bags provide adequate ventilation – unlike plastic – so perishable items stored in them stay fresh.

• Jute bags also help you save animals. Animals are a vital part of our ecosystem, and when people buy leather bags or other accessories crafted with animal parts, it affects the natural balance of the environment. Choose the sustainable accessories available on Amala Earth to contribute your bit to saving the planet.

• Buying a jute bag helps you support an artisan. Very often, sustainable fashion products are made by rural artisans, and therefore, when you buy a product you are directly supporting their livelihood. Take, for instance, the beige cotton-jute handbag available at Amala Earth, which is both gorgeous and crafted by a woman artisan in India. Always remember, when you invest in a sustainable fashion brand such as those available on Amala Earth, you are also supporting designers promoting sustainable fashion.