All paper used has been sourced responsibly, as certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, with recycled paper used in conjunction with non-recycled paper to provide a stronger structure. The bags have been tested to carry up to 6kg worth of groceries.
Made from 70% recycled paper, each bag will cost 20 cents, and will supplement Woolworths’ existing reusable plastic bags.
Woolworths Supermarkets Managing Director Claire Peters said: “While the vast majority of our customers bring their own bags,
we know customers sometimes drop by a store unplanned or can forget their bags when they’re on the run.
“For some time, customers have told us they’d like the option of a strong paper bag, so we’re pleased to now offer that choice at our checkouts, alongside our existing reusable plastic bags.”
Plans are underway to extend the option of paper bags to Woolworths' online customers for home delivery and Pick Up.
Since Woolworths began phasing out single-use plastic bags in 2018 more than 6 billion bags have been taken out of circulation. Only 15 per cent of customers now purchase a new bag during a transaction when visiting a Woolworths store.
"I congratulate Woolworths on their contribution to keeping our forests safe and thriving.” says FSC CEO Damian Paull.
“We are proud of the partnership we have with Woolworths through our Trademark License Holder program. The trademark program enables retailers to promote FSC certified products from responsibly managed forests that take care of the people and wildlife who call them home.
“The program supports the market to provide an incentive for better forest management. This supports increased biodiversity which is the theme of this year’s World Environment Day on 5 June. ”