TED-Ed: Which bag should you use? | Luka Seamus Wright and Imogen Ellen Napper

The video explores the environmental impact of plastic, paper, and cotton bags, focusing on their carbon footprints, reusability, recycling potential, and degradability. Plastic bags, despite their bad reputation, have a lower carbon footprint compared to paper and cotton bags. However, reusability and recycling can offset the environmental toll of all bag types. The video concludes that durable, reusable bags made of tough plastics are the most environmentally friendly option.

What is the main environmental concern associated with the production of plastic bags?

• They emit a significant amount of carbon dioxide.

• They are made from recycled materials.

• They require a lot of water.

• They are biodegradable.

Which type of bag has the highest carbon footprint during production?

• Cotton tote

• Plastic bag

• Recycled plastic bag

• Paper bag

How many times must a cotton tote be reused to lower its carbon footprint compared to a single-use plastic bag?

• 131 times

• 100 times

• 50 times

• 3 times

What is a significant challenge in recycling plastic bags?

• They are too expensive to recycle.

• They require special machinery.

• Many countries lack the necessary infrastructure.

• They degrade too quickly.

What is the recommended type of bag for minimizing environmental impact?

• Cotton totes

• Durable plastic bags made from polyester and vinyl

• Paper bags

• Single-use plastic bags