By Annie Bell Muzaurieta

Posted: 01.20.10 | Tagged: paper, recycling

As a responsible consumer you've done your research and determined that, of course, reusable canvas bags are best. But inevitably you forget to bring your bags one day and you're faced with the question: paper or plastic? You opt for paper bags, but then what-can you recycle these sacks?

The EPA tells us that paper grocery bags, and their "mini-me," the paper lunch bag, are recyclable. Like cardboard pizza boxes, they shouldn't be contaminated with food because a grease spot or a spilled liquid will render the bag unrecyclable.

Paper bags can already contain recycled material, according to the EPA, and almost 37 percent of the fiber used to make new paper products in the US came from recycled sources in 2007. Most paper bags can be placed in mixed paper recycling, but your city's website can advise you on how best to recycle them.

Unlike glass, paper cannot be recycled endlessly. Every time paper is recycled the fiber gets shorter, according to the EPA, and after being recycled five to seven times, the fibers can no longer be bonded into new paper.

If the bags are minimally inked, Treehugger suggests composting the bags to convert the paper into a rich soil nutrient. Remember, recycling paper bags is not without issue. Harsh chemicals and water are required to re-pulp the paper before it's cleaned, screened and reused.

And don't forget to try to bring those reusable bags to the store. These string bags are compact and can hide out in your purse or computer bag so you can't forget them. As for your lunch, go retro with a lunch box, or modern with a bento box.

Have any suggestions for making the most of your paper bags? Share them by commenting below.