In some states of our country there is a ban on the use of polythene bags for shopping. Why ? List there advantages of using jute or cloth bags over polythene bags.

Explanation

Government of India is imposing a ban on the use of polythene bags because they cannot be degraded naturally by the action of microorganisms. Because of their non-biodegradability, they stay in the soil for a long time and continue to poison it with toxic by-products that keep leaching from them. Also, they do not allow water to seep in, as they are waterproof. These polythene bags, when accidentally eaten by stray animals, can harm them and can even lead to their death.
Jute and cloth bags can be used in place of polythene bags because :
(i) They are environment-friendly as they are biodegradable.
(ii) They are renewable and can be easily recycled.
Thus, using jute and cloth bags will help to reduce pollution.