Recycled Toiletry Bags and Cosmetic Purses
Recycled fish feed bags
Reviewed by Jo on 12 September 2008
Rating: 
Toiletry and cosmetic bags crafted using recycled fish feed sacks which are otherwise destined for disposal. These bags are made in Cambodia by Hagan Designs. The company provides jobs, fair wages and safe working conditions for disadvantaged Cambodian women. The bags are fully lined with the recycled bag which is waterproof and finished with black piping and a zip. They both have an interior zippered pocket.
 | Made from recycled materials |
 | Minimises the use of pesticides / fertilizers |
| Fairtrade |
| Aussie made |
| Sustainable |
| Minimises chemical use |
| Lifecycle impacts considered |
Options
The toiletry bags and cosmetic purses differ in design depending on the sack they are made from. They are available in either blue, green or white.
Toiletry bags (main picture) - $28
Cosmetic purse - $26
Where to buy
These products are available through the Dharma Door website.
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Raw
material - Disused plastic bags which were once used for storing and transporting fish feed. |
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Manufacturing
– The products are manufactured by Hagar Design. This business was set up to provide work for vulnerable women and generate income for social projects including shelters and to help with recovery and rehabilitation of victims of human trafficking. Fair wages are paid and the working conditions are good. The bags are cut and sewn by hand on site. Fair Trade certification (and labeling) doesn’t exist for craft products, only for commodities such as cocoa, tea and coffee. However, there are 10 standards of Fair Trade which relate to working conditions, wages, child labour and the environment. The activities of the Hagar Designs organization have been reviewed against these standards and the sustainability of the operations has been reviewed by Dharma Door. |
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Distribution – The bags are put together in the workshop in Phnom Penh. The bags are shipped to Australia in bulk and distributed after purchase via Australia Post. |
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Product use – The bags are waterproof and are designed to be hardwearing. |
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Waste
management – At the end of their life the bags would require disposal as the original bags from which they are made are not biodegradable or recyclable. |