SHOP SMART: USE RECYCLED BAGS INSTEAD OF PLASTIC

Every time I go to the food store I bring home approximately 10 bags of groceries. This, however, is a small load compared to people who have larger families. I have seen people in the stores with two shopping carts full of grocery bags, most of which are plastic. Plastic is harmful to our ozone layer and is very expensive. Furthermore, plastic bags kill thousands of marine life each year because these creatures mistake the floating plastic bags as food. Plastic bags that are buried in landfills could take up to 1,000 years to fully break down and in doing so they separate into tiny particles that are toxic which can contaminate our dirt and water which kills our animals because they then ingest this water and eat food from the dirt. Also, producing plastic bags consumes oil that could be used to heat our homes and fuel our automobiles.

So, how are you going to get your groceries home the next time you go to the store? Why not try a reusable shopping bag that are made from materials that will not harm the environment. There are many grocery stores nowadays that offer this great alternative to plastic or paper bags. Reusable shopping bags made from renewable materials conserve resources by replacing paper and plastic bags. Reusable bags are convenient and come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials. When not in use, some reusable bags can be rolled or folded small enough to fit easily into a pocket.

If you do end up using plastic bags every once in a while, be sure to recycle them. Most grocery stores now collect plastic bags for recycling. Furthermore, If yours doesn't, check with your community recycling program to learn how to recycle plastic bags in your area.