Creating A Grocery Revolution

This article was previously published in the Community Food News newsletter in the April/May 2005 issue.

A Note from our Cashiers:
Creating a Grocery Revolution
with Reusable Bags

By Rebecca A. Kinman, Co-op Staff


“Paper or Plastic?” There it is again. That controversial
and sometimes annoying question that we hear so
very often. A cashier can end up asking this redundant
question more than one hundred times a day, often offering
a cardboard box option as well. There is one magical
answer that is music to a cashierʼs ears: “I brought my
own bags, thank you.”
Yes, reusable cloth and canvas grocery bags are better
for the environment, less wasteful, and more economical
than some of the more popular grocery totes. (Look for
them for sale at every register at the Co-op.)
Frankly, they are just downright practical. Why is this,
exactly?
Eco-friendly
You can sleep better knowing you are using less “treesources”,
and you are boycotting plastic bags, which are
far from biodegradable and can harm precious wildlife.
Fact: On average, one consumer uses a whopping 500
plastic bags per year! Thatʼs just for grocery use.
Built to last
Cloth bags are sturdier, stronger, and can often handle
more groceries than a paper or plastic bag. Thereʼs
nothing quite as irritating as having your plastic bag fall
apart in the middle of the sidewalk.
Worth it
For every bag and jar you bring from home to re-use at
the Co-op, you get 5¢ off your purchase. That adds up.
For example: refilling just three bags (including bags
for bulk and produce items) every week would save you
$ 7.20 per year. The reusable cloth bags you can get at
the Co-op cost anywhere from approximately $6 to $9.
This means after a year and a half (give or take), your
very own cloth bag will pay for itself.
Remember to use ‘em
So, you already have tons of canvas bags but forget half
the time to bring them to the store? Youʼre not alone.
Tip: If you are inspired, grab your bags and put them in
your car right now. When you finish putting your groceries
away, get into the habit of storing them in the car
right away. That way you wonʼt ever have to remember
to dig them up. Donʼt drive? Hang them on a rack near
your door. (Of course, using your backpack for groceries
also counts towards your 5¢ off!)
Paper and plastics still a reliable alternative
But hey, weʼre all human. We forget our bags. Thatʼs
OK because our fellow co-op members often bring
enough reused plastic--and sometimes paper--bags for
all to share. We gladly accept paper and plastic grocery
bags that remain in functional shape for carrying groceries.
When donating bags, please empty them of all
contents. We canʼt use bags that are ripped or soiled.
Odd-sized bags, produce bags, or “sandwich” baggies
are out, too. If you donʼt want to waste these useful
items, just fill them with bulk items or produce when
you shop. Weʼll give you 5¢ off for each one.
Revolutionize
We can always show a little more enthusiasm for our
fragile Earth. Combine a little eco-sustainable philosophy
and some good olʼ fashionʼ common sense,
and youʼre part of a revolutionary movement that can
change how our shopping experience affects the planet
- one bag at a time.