Cut Down on Plastic Bag Use

Wednesday, 05 November 2008

Did you know that the U.S. consumes 100 billion plastic shopping bags annually? The manufacturing process required to make these bags uses the energy equivalent of 12 million barrels of oil! Even worse, plastic bags eventually break down into tiny bits of plastic. This plastic can contaminate soil and waterways, and also enters the food web when they are accidentally ingested by animals.

Save energy and reduce waste by using reusable shopping bags. Once you get in the habit of bringing bags with you when you shop, you'll be amazed at how simple it is! Here are some tips to help you remember:

• Put your grocery coupons in your bag and keep it by the door or near your car keys.
• Write yourself a reminder on your grocery list.
• Keep reusable bags in the trunk of your car and put a note on the dashboard to remind you to bring them.
• If you have kids, ask them to help remind you to bring your bags as part of their weekly chores.