Sustainability
RESOLUTION: I WILL REDUCE MY USE OF PLASTIC BAGS
Using reusable shopping bags, instead of the
free plastic bags at the store, is one of
the easiest steps anyone can take to fight
global warming, reduce our use of natural
resources, and protect our waterways and
wildlife.
Reported statistics about plastic bags:
-
Plastic bags are made from oil. (Producing
14 plastic bags uses the same amount of oil
as driving one mile.)
-
Just one percent of plastic bags are
recycled.
-
Plastic bags significantly contribute to
litter problems as they are lightweight and
blow around easily.
-
Many plastic bags end up in our waterways,
endangering wildlife and degrading water and
soil quality.
The next time you go shopping, remember your
reusable bags.
Tips for REDUCING plastic bag use:
G Don’t
bag big items or items with handles like
gallon milk jugs, cases of soda or large
detergent bottles.
G Avoid
double bagging.
G Always
try to put one extra item in your bag.
G If
you are purchasing one or two items ask
yourself, “Do I really need a bag?”
Tips for remembering your reusable bags:
G Store
bags in your vehicle.
G After
you unpack your groceries, return the bags
to your vehicle.
G Store
a bag in your desk at work.
G Purchase
a few compact reusable bags you can keep in
your purse, jacket pocket, backpack or
briefcase.
G Ask
the kids to remind you to bring your bags as
part of earning their allowance.
G Hang
the bags next to the door.
G Item
#1 on shopping list: REMEMBER BAGS.
Salt Lake City’s
Sustainability Division is currently working
with the local grocery industries to develop
a cooperative campaign promoting the use of
reusable bags.
More resources:
Debbie Lyons
Recycling Program Manager
Salt Lake City Corporation
Division of Sustainability and the
Environment
P.O. Box 145467
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-546
801.535.7795