There is much controversy about the plastic bag situation. I for one use fabric bags regularly.
However, I am concerned with the one–sided approach to this issue.
By far, retail businesses seem to be the least responsible for the management of waste. Little evidence of recycling is seen including malls, restaurants etc. Recently I did see efforts by Harvey’s. Many businesses continue to spew non-compostable bags into the environment at the grocery and retail level. Some charge to do so, without evidence of directing this income stream towards a more environmentally conscious product.
Why are we not encouraging the huge retail field to use compostable bags? As individuals, we are required to buy special bags to “recycle” compostable and recyclable items. Yet industry could have the greater impact by taking responsibility in this area. Biodegradable and compostable bags are available. I received one in Europe and it is also “re-usable for wet contents.”
Wouldn’t it be innovative for our Botanical community to engage with current and each new business settling into our community? Let us lead by challenging them to best practice, taking responsibility for using compostable bags in the St. Albert region? Businesses seem to receive enough incentives. To what accountability are we holding them? Biodegradable and compostable bags are available.
Sheron Pickard, St. Albert
