How to measure a paper bag:

Are paper bags recyclable?
Yes paper bags are widely and easily recyclable if they are free of grease, food residue and other contaminants. Paper bags with plastic windows or plastic lining are likely NOT recyclable. In America, more paper is reclaimed for recycling than all other materials combined (excluding steel) due to supply, demand for recycled paper and wide spread accessibility. About 37% of raw materials used by paper mills in the US is recycled or recovered according to the EPA.

Are paper bags compostable?
Our Duro bags are BPI Certified compostable for industrial composting. In general, paper bags are technically compostable due to their organic material. White paper bags should not be composted as they are typically bleached and can contain chemicals that would negatively affect compost quality. We recommend in general using kraft paper vs bleached paper for all disposable paper products when possible. If intending to compost, look for a certification.

Are paper bags biodegradable?
Kraft paper bags in general are easily biodegradable as long as it is not coated in wax or plastic lining. On a long enough time line, everything biodegrades (unless locked in a landfill) but paper bags with plastic coating will eventually leave microplastics behind.

Is it better to compost or recycle brown paper bags?
Recycling paper bags will give the material another use. When there is a choice, we recommend recycling assuming bags are clean of contaminants like grease and food.