You may have noticed that “Green” Challenge has been changed to “Doing Things Better” Challenge. The reason for that is, while the word “green” has become a useful term for referring to all things earth-friendly, studies show that people are getting sick of hearing it. And at Go Lightly, we are not trying to shove eco-consciousness down anybody’s throat, we are just trying to help bring about a better, healthier world. So instead of challenging ourselves to be green, let’s think of it as simply learning to do things in a better way. Because that’s what it’s about. It’s not a trend, it’s not a catch-phrase, it’s about a better way of life. It’s about evolving. And we should never get sick of doing that, right?
So, our next challenge is a two-parter. The first part may be elementary for some, but others might need a nudge. Well here is your nudge: SHOP WITH REUSABLE BAGS!
We are all doing this, right? Sometimes I wonder because I rarely see people with their bags in the grocery store. But this is such a simple thing (once you get used to it) and the waste that is saved is IMMENSE. I won’t even say the numbers of plastic and paper bags used in this country alone every minute, but I will paint you this picture: Millions of people are shopping somewhere, everywhere, at any given second. My head spins when I think of all those bags.
You might not think you make a difference, but you do. When you use reusable bags, not only are you saving waste, but you are making a visible statement- to the register clerk, to the store managers, and to fellow shoppers. Fifteen years ago when I used to say I didn’t want a bag, I would actually be given a hard time. Now, finally, it is becoming the norm. And it is because more and more individuals are making it so. So remember those bags…and not just for groceries. There are little bags you can keep balled up in your purse or backpack or briefcase that you can use when getting take- out, or buying shoes, or whatever. We also have fine mesh bags for buying produce and bulk items like nuts and grains.
Here’s to a paper and plastic bag-free world! (Well almost….but we will save that discussion for next time’s challenge).
