11.03.08
Bein’ Green: Reusable Bags
I try to remember to bring my reusable bags to the store. Most of the time I remember, and if I don’t, I fill my backpack and debate the ridiculousness of maybe buying a new reusable bag while I’m standing on line. I don’t actually buy a new bag, but I usually consider it while I mentally kick myself for not remembering. What bothers me even more than not remembering to bring my bags is when I *do* bring my bags and the cashier doesn’t seem to have a clue about what I am doing.
Many stores are claiming that they are “going green” and offer branded resuable bags. This is great, and I have absolutely no problem using bags from one store at another store. What I *do* have a problem with, is cashiers at these supposedly “green” stores that don’t have any idea why I am handing them a bag. Once I was even asked if there was another bag with a price tag on it so she could ring it up. Uh, no, this bag isn’t from your store - note the completely different logo.
A co-worker and I were trading “using your own bag” stories. I was not entirely surprised to find out that I am not the only one who has had problems. My co-worker has had many of the same stories to tell. My favorite is when the cashier tries to use plastic bags when I have already handed them my reusable bags.
I just wish that companies would actually practice what they preach. This includes: training/retraining their employees, requiring that their resuable bags be made from recycled materials, not printing usless marketing materials about how they are going green (Starbucks), etc. Am I asking too much?
Helen/patientgardener said,
November 3, 2008 at 4:48 pm
In m experience the stores here in the Uk are getting much better. One big chain charges now for plastic bags and has adverts everywhere reminding you to bring bags. Where I shop they ask if you need bags or whether you have your own.