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Thank you Edmonds residents and retailers Thank you Edmonds residents and retailers on a successful launch in the effort to reduce single-use plastic checkout bags! As most shoppers and businesses are now aware, Ordinance No. 3749 became effective on August 27, 2010, prohibiting the use of single-use plastic checkout bags at all retail establishments. This only applies to checkout bags; plastic bags for meats, vegetables, bulk food or prepared food gathered within a retail store, and plastic bags for prepared food from deli counters and restaurants can still be provided to customers. Reusable bags – A better idea When asked “paper or plastic?” at the checkout counter, the best answer is, “Neither. I brought my own!” Reusable bags are a much better option. Most are recyclable, lightweight, durable, and washable, and can carry three to four times the amount of weight than a single-use bag. Making a conscious effort to use reusable bags instead of single-use bags is ecologically and economically beneficial. Using reusable bags conserves energy and natural resources, reduces waste in landfills, diminishes litter, and promotes a cleaner environment. Edmonds plastic bag ordinance In the summer of 2009, the Edmonds City Council adopted Ordinance No. 3749, which bans the use of single-use plastic checkout bags at all retail establishments. The ordinance requires all retail establishments to comply with the requirements of the ordinance by the first anniversary, which was August 27, 2010. The ordinance promotes reusable bags as the best option for checkout bags and calls for an educational program to encourage the use of reusable bags. Thus, the Bring Your Own Bag campaign was born. It is intended to inform Edmonds retailers and residents about the benefits of using reusable checkout bags. How can I help? Most importantly, be a role model to others for using reusable bags. It may only seem like you’re saving a few bags here and there, but for every additional person who uses reusable bags, it all adds up to making a better environment. Here are some simple steps you can take right now to help with the Bring Your Own Bag campaign. At home
At the store
Retailers
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Student poster contest
“The Wonder of Reusable Bags” Click here to view the article entitled “The Wonder of Reusable Bags” published on January 27, 2010 in The Enterprise. The article was written by Teos Bisbee, graduate of Meadowdale High School. Bring Your Own Bag campaign subcommittee members
The Bring Your Own Bag campaign subcommittee is a division of the Mayor’s Climate Protection Committee.
Questions? If you have any questions on the provisions of the plastic bag ordinance or on submitting a request for extension, please contact: Jen Machuga, Planner |
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