PAPER BAGS WITHOUT GLUE

Objective

To promote sustainable packaging alternatives using simple, low-cost techniques that avoid the use of chemical glue.

Explanation

Paper bags can be made using recycled newspapers or waste paper, folded and secured through natural interlocking techniques instead of synthetic adhesives.
In some cases, a homemade starch paste (made from rice flour/maida) may be used as a natural adhesive, but the primary method taught is folding-based locking, ensuring the bag is strong and glue-free.

Benefits

• Reduces dependence on plastic carry bags.
• Encourages recycling of old newspapers and waste paper.
• Develops entrepreneurship skills among students, youth, and women’s self-help groups (SHGs).
• Cost-effective and easy to learn, making it suitable for schools and community groups.

Implementation

• Conduct hands-on paper bag–making workshops in schools, colleges, and SHGs.
• Encourage students to make and donate bags to local vendors, marketplaces, and temple stalls.
• Use and distribute these bags during eco-events, awareness rallies, and plastic-free drives.