In 4th grade we started a petition to ban single-use plastic bags in the City of Houston. It bothered us that plastic bags polluted our childhood park and bayou, hanging from the trees and packed in the ground. But plastic bag pollution has far-reaching effects. Marine life like turtles swallow the bags thinking that they’re jellyfish and wash onto beaches, dead. Plastic bags clog our storm drains and intensify flooding.

We wanted an alternative. We partnered with a former refugee from Afghanistan named Khatera Khorushan to “upcycle” used vinyl banners into beautiful, sturdy reusable bags. We are creating a virtuous cycle of employment, upcycling, and ecological health.

This beautiful bag and your support in using it will help us make a difference. Thank you.

Caoilin Krathaus & Lila Mankad, 12th Grade
 Bag-Free Bayous