Green-friendly grocery bags? Hey, it's called canvas!

I'm all for being eco-friendly -- I try to avoid waste whenever I can. But there's a fine line between doing right by mother nature and acting like a complete poser and an article (subscription required) in today's Wall Street Journal shows that many, many people are crossing that line.

The Shopping Around column highlights 4 trendy reusable tote bags designed for carrying your groceries and, perhaps more importantly, showing people how green-friendly you are. The Bring it in a Bag Market Bag -- emblazoned with the slogan "Green is the new brown" will set you back $15.99.

Folks, here's the thing: wasting money on an expensive, and I would argue preachy, bag runs counter to the whole anti-waste movement. Wouldn't it be more humanitarian to buy a cheaper bag and donate some money to charity?

Here's an idea: instead of buying an overpriced bag from a for-profit company, try combining environmentalism with supporting your community. Many libraries offer canvas tote bags, with all the proceeds going to buy books and pay for other services. A win-win!

If you need your green-friendly bag to preach to people you run into at the grocery store, I think you have to question your true motives for going green.