N. L. Government Deliberates on Plastic Bag Ban
The provincial government of Newfoundland continues to deliberate on banning single-use plastic bags. Although Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador hosted a day of action on March 11 to advocate for a decision, the provincial government calls for more consultation.
The ban would eliminate the distribution of single-use plastic bags from retail stores across the province. This small change would benefit the greater good, mitigating the cost with global gain.
Plastic bags are not a necessary evil, especially with the array of alternative products that are just as convenient and affordable. One can become a more conscientious consumer by using reusable shopping bags, cardboard boxes or even recyclable paper bags. Retailers like Dominion, Sobeys, and Walmart offer machine-washable, reusable alternatives for just $1; a small price to pay for a better world.
Plastic bags are part of a disposable lifestyle which our planet can no longer sustain. Plastic bags are non-biodegradable, that is, cannot be broken down by the action of bacteria and other microorganisms. They end up littering and eventually being blown around our cities and parks, compiling in landfills and polluting the oceans. Hence, eliminating plastic bags from retailers is a step towards a healthier life; for our planet and our people.
All Newfoundland residents are welcome to fill out an online questionnaire, which is available until March 27th when consultations on the matter. The link for the questionnaire is attached below. close.https://www.engagenl.ca/engagement-initiatives/reduction-plastic-retail-bag-use
Article compiled by: Tia Julien
Courtesy of : The Graduate Sustainability Society (GSS)