1. TOMbag’s mission is to replace single-use plastic bags with a reusable and sustainable solution. Could you elaborate on the materials you use, especially the certified recycled plastic bottles (rPET)? How do you ensure the durability and performance of the fabric while maintaining its eco-friendly credentials?
We specifically chose Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified rPET because it allows us to tackle two major issues at once: plastic pollution and the environmental impact of producing new plastics. By sourcing our material from post-consumer plastic bottles, each TOMbag diverts waste from landfill and reduces the need for virgin plastic. This is a win for both the environment and anyone looking to make more sustainable choices.
What’s compelling is the environmental impact. Using rPET instead of virgin plastic cuts greenhouse gas emissions by about 79% over the entire lifecycle—from raw material extraction and production to transportation and disposal. Every TOMbag significantly lowers the carbon footprint compared to traditional bin liners.
We process the rPET into a strong, flexible fabric that performs as well as conventional plastic but with a much smaller environmental footprint. The bags are designed with reinforced stitching, are 100% waterproof, and are resistant to tearing and heavy use. They are washable or can be wiped clean easily without degrading the material. TOMbag offers a practical, durable, and genuinely sustainable alternative to single-use garbage bags.
2. Given the frequent washing and high wear-and-tear that comes with garbage bags, how do you ensure that the rPET fabric remains strong, waterproof, and resistant to damage over time?
TOMbag's rPET garbage bags are engineered for rigorous use through advanced material science and stringent quality control. The rPET fabric undergoes a specialized manufacturing process—shredding, spinning, and weaving—to create a tightly woven structure.
Key durability features include:
- Ultrasonically welded seams with 5mm overlaps tested for tear resistance
- Waterproof coatings like PU or TPE adhesives, effective after 200+ washes
- Accelerated testing verifying 45N tear strength and <0.02% water absorption
- Odor-resistant (TPU) and UV-protected fabric
A multilayered approach ensures TOMbags can outlast 1,000+ single-use liners without compromising their recycled content or recyclability.
3. One of TOMbag’s selling points is its 100% waterproof design. Could you explain the materials and methods used to achieve this waterproofing, and how it affects the bag’s overall recyclability at the end of its lifecycle?
TOMbag achieves its 100% waterproof design through thoughtful material selection and construction. Bags are made from tightly woven, certified rPET, which resists water penetration while remaining flexible. Seams are ultrasonically welded, eliminating the need for adhesives and weak points.
The use of pure rPET (without coatings or laminates) preserves recyclability. At end-of-life, bags are returned via TerraCycle’s Zero Waste Box™ system, shredded and repurposed into plastic granules. This mono-material design supports a circular economy and ensures waterproofing does not compromise recyclability.
4. As a circular solution, TOMbag emphasizes its upcycling potential. Could you walk us through the end-of-life options for your bags?
TOMbag is designed for true circularity. When a bag reaches the end of its useful life, customers return it via the TerraCycle Zero Waste Box™ system. The bag is sorted, processed, and transformed into plastic granules for new products.
We’re also exploring local upcycling partnerships and offer incentives like store credit for returned bags. This closed-loop system ensures TOMbags avoid landfill and continue benefiting the environment beyond their first use.
5. In terms of design, TOMbag has optimized the shape and usability of its bags. How do these design choices contribute to the bags' efficiency and environmental benefits?
TOMbag focuses on practical, efficient design. Bags are optimized to fit a range of bin sizes—from kitchen to outdoor bins—ensuring a seamless switch from single-use liners. They are also used in camping, beach cleanups, and more.
Key features include secure drawstring closures and reinforced handles, making them user-friendly and spill-resistant. Made from durable, washable, waterproof rPET, each TOMbag can be reused extensively, reducing waste and maximizing environmental impact.
We also plant a tree in Australia for every bag sold and support environmental charities. Future innovations include modular designs for repair and smart materials to enhance circularity and recyclability.
6. The bags are designed to replace single-use plastic liners. Do you face any challenges in convincing consumers and businesses to shift, especially in terms of cost versus convenience?
Yes, the shift involves addressing concerns around cost and convenience. People are used to the low cost and disposability of traditional liners. To counter this, we focus on education and demonstrating long-term value.
Each TOMbag replaces hundreds of liners, offering cost savings and superior performance. For businesses, we provide case studies, bulk incentives, and pilot programs to ease the transition.
Most users quickly realize the financial and environmental benefits, making the switch a logical choice once experienced firsthand.
7. Do you foresee any emerging sustainable materials that could be incorporated into TOMbag’s design? What are your goals for future material development?
As a self-funded business, our innovation pace is mindful. However, we remain committed to improvement. The global issue of plastic waste persists, making recycled plastic bottles our best current solution.
We’re actively exploring emerging materials and will adopt scalable, sustainable options as they become viable. Our goal is to keep TOMbag at the forefront of sustainable design while reducing dependency on virgin materials.
