The environmental movement has succeeded in a big way over the past three decades, making recycling an almost universal practice in the United States. Even so, consumer purchase of goods manufactured from recycled materials, while growing, has lagged behind.
Most newspapers sold in the U.S. today contain only a small percentage, if any, recycled content, and while paper manufacturers like Great White produce copy paper with a large recycled content, most consumers continue to buy paper goods made from forested wood materials rather than opting for recycled content.
There are some manufacturers, however, who are making significant progress in using recycled materials is a soft, pliant, color-fast material made entirely from recycled plastic soda bottles, and has been fashioned into a wide variety of goods including shopping bags, tote bags, bags made from recycled plastic winter parkas, and even pet beds.
Aluminum and steel are being recycled into park benches; meanwhile individuals committed to recycling are taking the issue into their own hands and building homes with materials scavenged from old barns and houses.
Recycling may be about to take another leap forward into the consciousness of the American public. With gas prices spiking once again, people are beginning to discuss energy independence and alternative fuels, including ethanol and biodiesel. Both have the option of being manufactured from discarded matter – ethanol, from wheat chaff and other cellulose-based material, and biodiesel from used cooking oil – McDiesel, so to speak!
Who knows? With the political and environmental issues bringing alternative fuels to the forefront, it may spark another, wide discussion, and the general public may end up more interesting in completing the cycle by buying recycled consumer goods.
You can now buy backpacks with straps that can be zipped inside to prevent handles getting caught on transport and potential thieves from picking them up easily. Another backpack tip is to choose one that can be laid flat and zipped open to pack. Top load backpacks can be a headache – you have to take everything out in order to find just one item.
Totes
Totes are the perfect choice for business trips, providing a fashionable, easy to pack option that affords a professional image, particularly when chosen in leather. They are full of pockets and compartments, to house all your documents, files and even your laptop, as well as enough space for a couple of day’s worth of clothes. If you travel by air regularly, investing in a good quality tote will make your travel experience much easier, providing you enough space and protection for a few souvenirs along the way.
