Jute is a material that stands out for its strength and durability. Is it a good substitute for plastic bags? Here we tell you.
In the search to contribute to the care of the environment, there are those who are constantly looking for materials that can replace plastic. One of the solutions that has gained popularity is jute. Does this option work?
It is a fabric of ecological and sustainable material that has gained extra points compared to plastic bags due to its characteristics of resistance and durability. Next, we tell you what are its advantages and disadvantages.
What is jute?
Jute, also known as “golden fiber“, is a plant whose scientific name is Corchorus Capsularis. It is mainly produced in India, where it also comes from. Still, it can grow in tropical regions.
There are several species, but the most used is white. Although the Corchorus Olitorius or Tossa Jute species is of better quality, it is usually more difficult to grow.
It is likely that you have a purse, carpet, basket or fabric made of this material without knowing it. Due to its advantages in the textile industry – and that it is also economical – it has been used for the manufacture of various articles for at least 5000 years.
Main uses
Due to its strength, jute is often used in the manufacture of bags for the storage and transport of agricultural products. It is common to see it as packaging cereals, sugar or potatoes.
It is not only used to replace shopping bags. It is also being used as an option for silver bags, gift packaging, covers, among others.
In the automotive industry it is an element used in the manufacture of composite materials.
Advantages of jute: why is it better than plastic bags?
Due to its characteristics, jute is considered a better option compared to plastic. In fact, some advantages have been identified over materials made with cotton. Here is a list of its benefits.
It is 100% organic. For its harvest does not require the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
It is resistant and breathable, ideal to be used as a market bag because it prevents products from losing their freshness.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) explains that one of the benefits of jute is that when planted on one hectare, it consumes 15 tons of carbon dioxide and transforms it into 11 tons of oxygen. More than some trees.
It can be mixed with other natural or synthetic fibers, dyed and printed, if desired.
You only need 6 months to reach maturity. This means that it does not require much soil to grow compared to other plants.
It is reusable.
It has a low thermal conductivity. It also has insulating and antistatic properties.
It’s economical.
Disadvantages of jute
The truth is that its disadvantages are nothing when compared to the benefits it offers. However, it is necessary to know them. One of the cons of jute is that it is very absorbent. Because of this, it is difficult to remove the stains that form on its surface.
With regard to burlap, if it is immersed for a long time in water, it can disintegrate. In this sense, the ideal is to avoid moisture. In case it gets wet, it must be dried in the open air. .
Jute or cotton: which is better?
If sustainability, maintenance and degradation are taken into account, jute is better than cotton from an environmental point of view. Although both fabrics are natural, jute requires less water to grow and does not need chemicals.
Also, we must consider that jute is a strong, durable, economical and versatile fiber, so it is a good option to replace many elements that, in general, are plastic. Without a doubt, if it is about replacing plastic bags, it is the best.
One fiber, different uses
Given its strength and versatility, jute is used in the manufacture of various household items, such as carpets, ropes, burlap, clothing, baskets, market bags, among others.
Due to its benefits to the environment, it has gained popularity as a substitute for plastic packaging. Many companies have even opted for this material when wrapping their products. Do you usually use it at home?