Simple Changes

While grocery shopping this past week, I was pleased to have the clerk ask me if I wanted paper or plastic bags. It certainly makes sense to use paper and then recycle the bag afterwards.

I was particularly pleased to see a message on the side of the bag stating, “This paper grocery bag is 100% recyclable, biodegradable and is composed of sawmill by-products that once were discarded, or burned.” They also plan on providing helpful environmental hints on their paper bags in the future.

What to do with all those left over plastic bags? Safeway bags can be recycled at their store. You can also use them to line kitchen or bathroom garbage pails or for picking up after pets.

An even better idea is to purchase (or make) reusable cloth bags to eliminate paper or plastic all together.

Originally posted in the Airdrie Echo May 2, 2007

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I asked a youth this week what he would do to reduce carbon emissions and his reply was, “Eliminate cars.” While that may be unpractical for most people right now, I like his way of thinking. We can certainly do our part by driving less.

When going out for groceries don’t just shop and go home. Plan to complete all your other errands at the same time (banking, post office, dry cleaning, etc.) to eliminate going out multiple times. Whenever possible, car pool or take public transit to reduce the number of cars on the road. Better yet, bike or walk and get in better shape while you are at it!

Originally posted in the Airdrie Echo April 18, 2007

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