Paper or plastic? No thanks

These are my top 8 picks for fashionable, reusable totes that won't break the bank! If you're got $15, you too can save a thousand paper and plastic bags from piling up in our landfills.



1. Method Reusable Market Tote, $15
Method's green solution to plastic bags goes as far as offsetting the CO2 emissions that come from shipping this tote to your home. They produce it responsibly (complete with non-toxic ink) so you all you have to do is say, "No, thanks!" when your grocer asks, "Paper or plastic?"

2. Envirosax - Mikado Bag 5, $8.50
With reinforced seams, you can tote up to two full bags of groceries in a single waterproof sack. Best of all, these are made under fair wage and labour conditions. Feel free to shop guilt free!

3. String Market Bags, $8
A classic organic netted bag is a cinch to tuck into your purse. Heck, stick it in your jacket pocket and you'll forget you even have it...until you find that enormous watermelon that you simply can't resist buying at the farmer's market! And no worries, this bag can easily hold up to 25 lbs...even if you can't.

4. Baggu, $8
This ripstop nylon sack comes with a little 5x5 inch pouch so you can slip it into its own little casing. It can keep it clean and ready for whatever treasures you may come across during your day!

5. E549 Woven Cotton Tote, $12
An all-purpose, double-handled natural cotton tote is perfect for silk screening your favorite image or displaying your collection of concert buttons. And, if you're trying to find just the right bag in just the right color (perhaps to match your summer sunnies), why not take matters into your own hands and dye it yourself with some Rit Dye in your .

6. Modern Shopper, $8
Can't resist those perfectly shaped paper shopping bags? With Bag the Habit's Modern Shopper, you can happily fit any box or package into this 100% recyclable tote.

7. Eco Jute Cherry Blossom Tote, $15
Looking for something that's a tad bit dressier? The fair trade Eco Jute accomplishes this with it's delicate-looking, yet sturdy wooden handle and cherry blossom design. Best of all, each purchase goes directly to the woman that makes each bag - a former prostitute and mother in Calcutta.

8. 24-7 Bag, $12
Part reusable bag, part Popple, this nylon shoulder tote can be rolled up into a ball. And this bag isn't some one hit wonder! If you're taking a trip this summer, keep it in your carry on for unexpected Duty Free purchases or if your stop-over in Albuquerque is leaving you tired and bored, why not roll it back up and play a little game of catch.

And to make these reusable totes ecologically effective, don't forget to bring them and use them each time you go shopping. The key word is "reuse," the more you use them, the better!