Subaru Japan designs a new range of eco-friendly tote bags that are made from leftover airbag fabric to give them new life. The bags boast a white color detailed with hi-vis reflective stripes in the STI (Subaru Tecnica International) colors of red or blue.
Additionally, it is also made from a special nylon fabric that is designed to survive many years' worth of heating cycles and be able to resist fire and water damage. This means that the totes are much more sturdy than traditional reusable bags. It has a wide opening to hold a variety of personal items. The bags are only available in Japan currently and are priced at ¥2,500, which is approximately $18.50 USD.
Airbag-Material Reusable Shopping Bags
Subaru Japan Creates a New Durable Tote Bag from Airbags
Trend Themes
1. Upcycling Materials - There is opportunity for other companies to give new life to unused or discarded materials by repurposing them for their products and services.
2. Sustainable Fashion - As environmental concerns continue to grow, companies that innovate in creating sustainable fashion, like Subaru's airbag-material tote bags, may have a competitive advantage.
3. Durable Products - Consumers are increasingly interested in products that can withstand wear and tear over an extended period of time like Subaru's airbag-material tote bags, creating potential for companies to innovate in durable product design.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Automakers like Subaru could pivot into producing eco-friendly bags made from leftover materials, expanding their environmental sustainability strategy.
2. Retail - Retailers at and outside of Japan, can offer more earth-conscious shoppers alternative options to typical, flimsy reusable bags, like Subaru’s durable airbag-material tote bag.
3. Manufacturing - Manufacturers can explore using eco-friendly materials and recycling unused materials in their processes, setting an industry trend for sustainable and durable goods.