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Editorial

Eco-friendly Alternatives to Plastic Bags

Published

9 years ago

on

Plastic bags ban is underway and you need to be on the right side of the law. While plastic bags are convenient for consumers, the sad truth is, plastic bags are extremely harmful to the environment and wildlife. There are many better alternatives to plastic bags for storage.

Paper Grocery Bags

We may think plastic bags are a better choice for the environment, but they often aren’t. Made from non-renewable crude oil, plastic bags aren’t biodegradable and it takes millions of barrels of oil to produce them every year (though, being lighter than paper, it takes less fuel to ship them). However, once they’re made, it’s nearly impossible to get rid of them. It can take as long as 400 years for one plastic bag to biodegrade. That’s a long time for plastic bags to hang around creating pollution problems and creating dangerous situations for wildlife that swallow plastic particles, which can cause harm, choking, or death. So, the next time you’re out shopping at the grocery store and the cashier asks if you want paper or plastic, choose paper.

Mason Jars

Alternatives to plastic bags for storage come in all shapes and sizes, and that includes the ever-popular Mason jar. Storing food in glass jars has been a trend for many years (and something your grandparents probably did). And, it has several advantages over plastic bags. Jars can be recycled and they can be washed and reused indefinitely – a true money saver. Food stored in jars tastes fresher because the glass doesn’t absorb odors from other foods in the fridge. They’re also food safe, don’t leak, and glass doesn’t contain toxins.

Reusable Cloth Shopping Bag

Many grocery stores offer the option of paper, plastic, or the purchase of their reusable shopping bags. The bags are usually displayed at various locations throughout the store, at the customer service counter, and when you check out and pay for your groceries. They come in a variety of colors, may or may not have the company logo, and some are decorated for the holidays. The reusable shopping bag are usually made from an inexpensive material, or fabric, that is durable. Some grocery chains ask shoppers to pay for plastic bags. By purchasing an eco-friendly recyclable shopping bag, you’re helping the planet and saving money, too (as long as you remember to bring them with next time).

Canvas Shopping Bags

Much like shopping bags available at grocery store chains, canvas shopping bags serve the same purpose. Materials used for shopping bags range from synthetic fabrics and recycled materials to cotton and canvas. With the focus on environmental health, some designers are adding reusable canvas totes, made from recycled or sustainable materials to their fashion collection. After shopping for groceries, make a personal statement about your support of a healthier environment by using a recycle shopping bag versus plastic bags.

Mesh Shopping Bags

Shop in style whether you’re at the grocery store or your local farmer’s market with a mesh sling shoulder bag. These flexible and roomy bags are ideal when shopping. They’re lightweight, see-through, and handles are part of entire bag versus attached handles, which means you don’t have to worry about snapped straps. Bring several with you when shopping for your groceries. When you get home, you can see what’s in each bag. Like other fabric-based shopping bags, they can be recycled once their useful life is over.

Denim Shopping Bags

A fun do-it-yourself project that saves money and promote recycling is a ‘make your own denim shopping bag.’ This is as simple as one-two-three: Clip a pair of pants to the desired bag length, sew a double hem along the seam, attach hooks and handles and voila, you’re ready to go shopping. The material is sturdy, so it will hold up under weight, it’s easy to carry with the shoulder strap, and best of all, it’s recycled material. It’s also versatile and can be used when you’re out-and-about town as a creative fashion piece.

Metal Containers

Stainless steel containers with a tightly fitting lid featuring a silicone seal serves as a very secure and easy to transport place to store food. Available in a variety of sizes, containers are lightweight, durable, and practical. They’re also great for storing food in the freezer. Versatility is at its best since you can use the same container to reheat the stored food. Another benefit of stainless steel is you can use a non-permanent marker to write on the container noting its contents.

Mesh Produce Bags

The next time you go shopping for fresh produce and need a bag, forego the plastic bags in the produce section and use a mesh bag, instead. If you look around, you’ll see many items, such as onions, potatoes and grapes already packaged in mesh bags. This is to protect them from cold, moist, dry and humid environments. So, why put unpackaged items into a plastic bag when mesh bags seem to be the better option. Bring your own mesh bags with you or recycle one already in your pantry.

Wax Paper

Before plastic bags were the ‘new thing’ for wrapping sandwiches and other items, wax paper was the way to go. Besides being durable, flexible, and recyclable, wax paper keeps items fresh. Whether you’re making your kid’s lunch for school or your own for work, use wax paper to wrap it and a paper bag to hold all the goodies.

Cardboard Boxes

Every store has them and all you need to do is ask if your store has a stash of cardboard boxes for free and where you can find one or two to carry your groceries. Some chains have them readily available at checkout so groceries can be packed as they’re checked. They come in all shapes and sizes and along with being strong and durable, cardboard boxes are recyclable. Whenever you buy something shipped in a cardboard box, reuse it at the grocery store if your local market doesn’t provide them, for free, to its customers.

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Cover Story

Elizabeth Nzisa: The Firstborn Who Became a Mother Overnight

Published

4 weeks ago

on

March 19, 2026

By

While most teenagers spend their days focused on school, friendships, and dreams for the future, Elizabeth Nzisa, fondly known as Shiku, was forced to grow up much faster than she ever imagined. At only 17 years old, she found herself taking on the role of a mother to her three younger siblings after her family was hit by tragedy not once, but twice.

Her story, shared in an emotional interview, is a powerful reflection of strength, sacrifice and the deep bond between siblings. Elizabeth recalls the moment her life changed completely. Her mother died while giving birth to their youngest sibling, a baby boy. In the middle of that painful loss, their father walked away from the family, leaving Elizabeth alone with a newborn and two other young children to care for.

Mama yetu alipass 2024, Feb. Alipass akipata haka katoto kadogo. Dad naye akatuacha akaenda

 

Becoming a Mother Too Soon

She explains that she had no choice but to step up and become the parent in the house. She raised her youngest brother from the day he was born, and to this day he calls her mum, not knowing she is actually his big sister. That detail alone shows how much responsibility she carried at such a young age. She became the provider, the protector, the caregiver, and the emotional support for her siblings while she was still trying to understand life herself. With little help from relatives, Elizabeth had to find ways to survive, balancing school when she could, doing small jobs and making sure her siblings were fed, safe and loved.

The journey was not easy. She faced financial struggles, emotional exhaustion, and the pressure of trying to stay strong even when she felt overwhelmed. There were moments when she doubted herself and wondered if she was doing enough. Still, her story is not about defeat. It is about endurance. Elizabeth talks about finding strength through faith, support from the people around her, and the determination to keep her family together no matter how hard things became.

Over the years, she made sure her siblings stayed in school, had food on the table, and grew up feeling loved despite everything they had lost. What could have been a completely broken home became a family held together by her sacrifice and commitment.

Many viewers reacted emotionally, saying the story moved them to tears. Some described firstborn daughters as second mothers, while others said her life shows the kind of courage people rarely see but should never forget.

 

Click here to read our March issue 2026

Continue Reading

Cover Story

Elizabeth Nzisa: The Firstborn Who Became a Mother Overnight

Published

4 weeks ago

on

March 19, 2026

By

While most teenagers spend their days focused on school, friendships, and dreams for the future, Elizabeth Nzisa, fondly known as Shiku, was forced to grow up much faster than she ever imagined. At only 17 years old, she found herself taking on the role of a mother to her three younger siblings after her family was hit by tragedy not once, but twice.

Her story, shared in an emotional interview, is a powerful reflection of strength, sacrifice and the deep bond between siblings. Elizabeth recalls the moment her life changed completely. Her mother died while giving birth to their youngest sibling, a baby boy. In the middle of that painful loss, their father walked away from the family, leaving Elizabeth alone with a newborn and two other young children to care for.

Mama yetu alipass 2024, Feb. Alipass akipata haka katoto kadogo. Dad naye akatuacha akaenda

 

Becoming a Mother Too Soon

She explains that she had no choice but to step up and become the parent in the house. She raised her youngest brother from the day he was born, and to this day he calls her mum, not knowing she is actually his big sister. That detail alone shows how much responsibility she carried at such a young age. She became the provider, the protector, the caregiver, and the emotional support for her siblings while she was still trying to understand life herself. With little help from relatives, Elizabeth had to find ways to survive, balancing school when she could, doing small jobs and making sure her siblings were fed, safe and loved.

The journey was not easy. She faced financial struggles, emotional exhaustion, and the pressure of trying to stay strong even when she felt overwhelmed. There were moments when she doubted herself and wondered if she was doing enough. Still, her story is not about defeat. It is about endurance. Elizabeth talks about finding strength through faith, support from the people around her, and the determination to keep her family together no matter how hard things became.

Over the years, she made sure her siblings stayed in school, had food on the table, and grew up feeling loved despite everything they had lost. What could have been a completely broken home became a family held together by her sacrifice and commitment.

Many viewers reacted emotionally, saying the story moved them to tears. Some described firstborn daughters as second mothers, while others said her life shows the kind of courage people rarely see but should never forget.

 

Click here to read our March issue 2026

Continue Reading

Cover Story

Endometriosis and sex: How to make intimacy pain-free

Published

1 month ago

on

March 11, 2026

By

There is no doubt that endometriosis can affect a woman’s way of life. The condition slews a couple of conditions, painful sex being one of them. Penetration pulls and pushes any tissue growth behind the vagina and lower uterus.

Although symptoms may differ from woman to woman, here are some things you can do to lessen your pain and ensure you have some good time:

Take a dose of painkillers

Take an over the counter painkiller that sits well with your body before intercourse and incase pain persists, take another one as prescribed.

Track your cycle and try at certain times of the month

Most women with endometriosis experience excruciating pain during their period and ovulation. Keep track of your cycle so that you can know when you are ovulating. You can use apps like my calendar and flo period tracker to track your periods. This will help you know when best to engage in sexual intercourse.

READ ALSO: Crucial Facts About Endometriosis Everyone Should Know About

Use lube

Vaginal dryness is not something to be ashamed of and if you happen to have it, lube should be your best buddy. Make sure to use any silicon or water based lubricant anytime you feel like your vagina is dry. Ensure the application is of good amount to achieve a wet area.

Explore alternatives

Talk with your partner about things that turn you on and bring you pleasure. Just to mention a few; mutual masturbation, foreplay, kissing and mutual fondling. Sex does not have to mean intercourse.

Try different positions

Experimenting different positions can teach you and your partner which ones hurt and the ones that bring direct pleasure with no or less pain. Positions that are considered better vary from person to person so take the time to explore and learn yourself with your partner.

Find the right rhythm

Finding the right rhythm can help you experience less discomfort during sex. Quick thrusting or deep penetration can aggravate pain. Talk to your partner about that which you do not like and find ways that will satisfy the both of you like exchanging positions so that you can control the speed and rhythm.

Bottom line

Intimacy does not have to be boring, painful or make you hate the condition that you have. Talk openly about your feelings around sex and penetration and what would help to ease your concerns.

Our FREE  e-paper March Issue is here!
As we celebrate our women this month, we bring you the best stories and the most inspiring features to get you going.
Click HERE to read!

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