Finland has one of the most tree and lake-rich landscapes in the world, and it takes strong measures to preserve it. Finland has been rated among the world's leading countries in many international comparisons of environmental protection standards, such as the Global Economic Forum's regularly compiled Environmental Sustainability Index. As one of the wealthiest industrialized nations with a relatively low population density, Finland is able to make vital environmental investments. Perhaps the biggest reason for its success in conservation, however, is the people's strong ties to nature. The outdoors is an essential part of a Finns' lifestyle, so it makes sense that they would want to help keep it healthy and beautiful.
One of the ways Finland is taking action is through encouraging the use of reusable bags instead of disposable, plastic ones. Most grocery and retail stores charge around 15p (28 cents) for a plastic bag, and paper is the more common choice. A recent survey about the cost of these bags revealed that 37% - more than a third - of Finns think that plastic bags should be banned completely. Reusable bags are readily available for purchase at checkout, encouraging shoppers to bring their own reusable bag next time. If plastic bags are used, they are often made from recycled materials and recycled again. In Finland, the average person only consumes four lightweight plastic bags each year! Still, Finland feels there is still more positive changes to be made, and that the rest of Europe (and the world) needs to follow suit.
FinnStyle is inspired to help consumers make the transition from single-use shopping bags to reusable ones by offering a variety of reusable bags in different sizes, materials, and prints. Something as simple as your favorite Marimekko Unikko pattern on a bag can be enough motivation and reminder to grab your bag before a trip to the store. Many of our handy resuable bags are compact enough to be kept in your purse, pocket, or glove compartment so they are always with you during impromptu stops. The Marimekko smart bag folds up into a tiny square for easy storage and convenience, and we have been offering these as free gifts during promotional times with orders as a way to encourage environmentally-friendly habits.
It's not just grocery shopping that reusable bags are beneficial for, for both for consumers and the planet as a whole. Think of all the places you are offered or given plastic bags; a quick stop in the gas station, stores in the mall, or even getting take-out food to go. The bags also come in handy for visits to the library, the beach, or a picnic in the park. Not to mention, they are much more stylish than a plastic bag. Being green is always in fashion, so we ask that our friends and fellow fans of Finnish design join in on the meaningful movement towards a world free from plastic bag waste.
