Australia’s Plastic, Not So Fantastic
Thursday, May 1st, 2008Australia Needs To Curb Plastic Shopping Bags
By: Phoenix Arrien
I am told that there is a stew of plastic bags the size of a continent whirling in the Pacific Ocean. I haven’t seen it myself but sources are numerous and reliable.
Australia is not quite taking its cue from China (usually not a country known for its eco-initiatives) which is banning thin plastic bags, but more and more people in Australia are taking woven bags to the shop, supermarket or farmers’ market.
Intense discussion at governmental level about charging a small fee for plastic bags at the checkout, so once it hits the wallet, the use of such bags should drop.
Travellers to Australia are in a great position to shop using their travel bags, daypacks or whatever else we use to carry things. And by the way, it is ok to say no to plastic bags at the Australian checkout. You would not be rude and the ‘checkout chic’ is standing there hoping you will do just that!
