So yesterday, I was in a Trader Joes market and was commenting to my friend who was checking out with me that all stores no matter what kind should not offer bags or at least charge big time for them. This would force people to bring their own.
Some countries are doing this, and some states have outlawed the plastic ones. So why don’t the stores just suck it up and do it? So as I am ranting and raving on the way out I see all these people coming in to shop. I have two of my own fabulous canvas bags that I got at Wisteria.com and my friend has one. None of the people coming in have their own bags.
So I just start talking out loud: "How come no one has their own bags here? It is so easy to grab your bag, not to mention you can pack them up so much better and even get a good arm workout while carrying your stuff out."
So as I am saying this, a few people do an about face and go back to their cars. I smile to myself. I get in my car, and as I am pulling out, I see one of the couples coming past me with their bags. I say out the window, "Did I remind you about your bags?" They smiled and said, "Yes," and I said, "Well, do the same and remind someone else."
We can all make this a habit!
This is simply amazing. Thanks for posting it. I liked your short yet intense post a lot. First because this topic is near and dear to my heart. I used to rant and rave about the same stuff from time to time. "If plastic is not good, ban plastic bags" was my mantra. But nothing used to happen. I am sure if I went fighting at the right places (manufacturing and distribution places) nothing would have worked either or may be, who knows! Second reason is, ranting and raving is the first reaction towards any such issue- be it environmental or social but hardly ever anyone responds to a situation in a mature way as you did. There could not have been a better solution. I applaud the effort. You could see the instant results is something very encouraging. Even when the right places do not hear the voice, the more right place would have an impact. The only ways changes can happen would be through consumers, users and the people at receiving and utilizing ends.
Thanks again!
I wholeheartedly agree… they should also give more of a discount then 3 cents for your own bags…it is not really a big enough incentive for some.. I always keep my bags on my passenger seat so they are right next to my pocket book so i never forget!,,,I used to HATE ending up with all those stupid bags taking up room in my house!
The problem with individual stores either banning or charging for bags is that many people would probably shop elsewhere. The best way to deal with this issue is for states to institute a law that would require stores to charge something like 15 cents a bag–and the money should go to environmental causes. Some cities are already doing this.
I have noticed a HUGE change, however. I have been using tote bags for years and never saw anyone else using them. Now, however, I see people with them every day. We are making progress.
Author of Harmonious Environment–in the book I ask people to start a revolution with using reusable tote bags!