See our progress chart... click here!
On July 4, 2009, First Alternative Co-op began charging 5¢ for every new paper bag used at our checkout registers. This charge is an environmental initiative meant to lessen our dependence on disposable bags and encourage the use of reusable shopping bags. A survey conducted among our customers earlier this year showed overwhelming support for a bag charge.
• An owner survey determined how the Co-op uses the proceeds from the bag charge. The results were for proceeds to go towards the Co-op's Recycling Center.
• Our Beans for Bags program has not changed, and customers still receive one bean for every bag reused at checkout.
• Only the paper handled bags at the registers are charged for, not the smaller paper bags or plastic bags used for produce and bulk items.
• Questions or comments? Call Donna at 753-3115 ext. 328 or send an email to reducebaguse@firstalt.coop. |
Why Reuse Bags?
• Each year, an estimated 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide. That averages over one million bags per minute. 60-120 million barrels of oil are used to make that many bags.
• The average family uses over 1000 shopping bags annually.
• In 1999, 14 million trees were cut to produce the 10 billion paper grocery bags used by Americans. Those bags occupy 3 million cubic meters of landfill space.
• Only 10-15% of paper bags and 1-3% of plastic bags are recycled. Although recycling helps save natural resources, it is also expensive and creates more air pollution.
• In New York City alone, one less grocery bag per person per year would reduce waste by five million pounds and save $250,000 in disposal costs.
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There are many reusable bag options for purchase at the Co-op
ChicoBags, $4.99:
• Includes its own built-in stuff pack!
• 20 lb capacity!
• Easily fits into your pocket or purse!
• Made of strong, washable nylon!
Down To Earth Mesh Shopping Bags, $7.29
Handmade Expressions Handmade Reusable Bags, prices vary. Fair Trade Certified
Ananse Village African Baskets:
Small Market Basket, $15.49
Market Basket Large, $29.99
Small Tote Basket, $28.99
Medium Tote Basket, $38.99
Large Tote Basket, $48.99
Handwoven and Fairly Traded
Therm-a-Snap Thermal Bags:
Small, $2.49
Large, $3.79
Keeps food hot or cold for up to 3 hours.
Paper or Plastic?
The Washington Post has presented a wonderful Paper vs. Plastic timeline, bringing attention to the production and consumption of natural resources that we are quickly gobbling up. "When you weigh all the costs to the environement, you might just choose to reuse." Take a look! |
