According to Ocean Crusaders, people of Australia use 6.9 billion plastic bags a year, and if these were tided together they would go around the world 42.5 times. This is just Australia! Now think, how many times would it go around if you included the rest of the worlds plastic bag usage.
Plastic bags are a major problem, adding to our pollution across lands and oceans. It can take up to 1000 years for a plastic bag to decompose and when they do they release toxic substances. Other than adding to landfill, they are also killing animals and blocking drains causing an increased flood risk.
Animals can get trapped in or eat plastic bags, which then causes them to suffocate or can block up their insides. This causes a great deal of suffering before eventually the animal will die.
A plastic bag can kill numerous animals because they take so long to disintegrate. An animal that dies from the bag will decompose and the bag will be released, another animal could harmlessly fall victim and once again eat the same bag.
Ocean Crusaders
There are many alternatives to the plastic bag, such as cloth bags, or boxes. The great thing about supermarkets is they always have cardboard boxes spare. Most supermarkets will have a section with cardboard boxes that you can help yourself to and pack your shopping into. If not, ask! I mentioned my local farm shop yesterday, they also provide boxes for packing.
I have a bunch bags in the boot of my car that I have been using for my shopping trips for the past 10 years! When visiting the local shop with housemates, if we forget to take a bag, I opt for the cardboard boxes or simply carrying everything myself. Often making them feel guilty for choosing a plastic bag and persuading them to opt for a box too. Say No to the plastic bag!
Have a nice day!
Chloé
Positive, Happy, Mindful 