These amazing bags all handwoven by women working within a Fair Trade program in Bangladesh, Vietnam, Philippines and India. Through the organization called Dharma Door the mission is to create sustainable solutions to poverty through trade and ensuring that fair wages, safe working conditions and human right are met. The bags are made from natural jute and and biodegradable. Though I don't know why you'd ever want to toss one out. You can purchase these and other on the Dharma Door website.