Correct bagging methods a start

Published 3:32 pm Friday, May 22, 2009

Don’t bag it.

I totally agree with Edmonds City Councilman Steve Bernheim’s plan to reduce bag demand at local stores.

His plan to charge for disposable bags may face opposition in these economic times but I would suggest an additional method that would reduce plastic bags ending up in our landfills.

Whenever I forget to bring my reusable bags into the store I have to resort to the cashiers using disposable bags for my groceries. A concentrated effort by stores in training their employees correct bagging methods would help tremendously. They bag a box of cereal or a shampoo container in one bag even thought there are other items that could be bagged with them. They often double bag items that don’t need this extra protection. I think with this extra effort and training, the amount of bags used could be cut by a third.

Another method would be to give shoppers a conspicuous store-front container for their used plastic and paper bags for recycling or reuse.

Money will always deter or encourage some actions, but an attentive, conscientious shopper will ultimately be the factor that will most help our fragile environment.

Richard Rock

Monroe