So probably for only the second or so time since its introduction did I actually recycle and re-use my supermarket plastic bags. It was so simple and got me thinking why have we all completely missed the point of the whole idea?
When it was introduced people complained at first, but understood that it was a step towards a cleaner environment, then as with most things it became just a way of life. A way of life, but not in the way it was intended. The idea was by making thicker, more durable bags and charging for them, people would re-use and thereby reduce the amount of plastic bags being produced and have less blowing around in our streets. Not, a way of life in that we just accept that we pay for our bags and then store them in our broom cupboard until we need them for other purposes, very rarely for the intended use of carrying groceries.
Our mindset seems to be all wrong, we are quite happy to pay the extra charge for plastic bags, it is a way of life. What we don't realise is that by the simple act of stuffing a few bags from that broom cupboard into our pocket or handbag as we head for the store, can in the long run have a real impact on the amount of plastic that needs to be produced to sustain our 'way of life'.
Thanks for reading, would love to hear your thoughts on other simple changes we can make to impact the environment around us?? Here is to a great 2011 everybody!
