Tote bags are large, often unattached bags with parallel handles protruding from the sides of the pouch. Tote bags are often used as reusable shopping bags. A typical shopping bag is made of durable fabric, printing bags with thick leather on the handles and bottom. Leather versions often have a grainy surface.

Common fabrics include canvas, jute, nylon, and other easy-care synthetic fibers, which can deteriorate after prolonged exposure to sunlight. Many budget tote bags are often made from recycled materials, minimally processed natural fibers, or by-products from the process of upgrading organic materials. Tote bags are sold as a more environmentally friendly alternative to disposable plastic bags because they can be reused multiple times. It was also presented as a promotional item.

According to a study by the British Environment Agency, cotton bags need to be reused at least 131 times before they are comparable to a single disposable plastic bag, and up to 327 times when a plastic bag is used as a garbage bag. is needed.

Another 2018 study by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency found that cotton bags need to be used 7,100 times to neutralize their environmental impact. Carry bags made of recycled polypropylene plastic, on the other hand, need to be recycled 11 times (up to 26 times when reused as a plastic bag trash bag liner).

The word tote is a colloquial English term (originally North American) meaning "to carry" or "to transport", generally in relation to a heavy load or burden. It is first recorded in Virginia in 1677, but its etymology is uncertain. An alleged African origin has been discredited. It may be related to Low German tute ("bag"), cognate with German Tüte ("bag") . Read more...