Plastic Bags

So, after my post about going greener, I guess I should follow through and say what I am doing this month. (and I did start it at the beginning of the month).

This month, my family will avoid the use of plastic bags whenever possible.

First are the grocery and shopping bags that are used everywhere. We, like most people, have some reusable bags. The problem is, I am lousy at remembering to bring them with me. So, my plan is simple in this regard. I bring the bags with me. If I don't have them, I stuff whatever I just bought in my diaper bag, or I run out to the car for them. I think I forget them because I can. If I stop viewing as an option to take a plastic bag, it fixes part of the problem right there.

Next are packing up food and leftovers. In all honesty, it is rare that I can't put these things into reusable containers instead. This is an area where I am usually fairly good, but plan to be even more aware of.

The next thing is a purchase that I am pretty excited about. I was considering the countless produce bags that get used and how to deal with that. I figured somebody must have made reusable produce bags and went looking on etsy. I found this:


These are available in a fabulous store: http://FickleFaerie.etsy.com

So, I ordered a bunch of them and can't wait to start using them. They are also based in Canada, which is awesome because it means shipping is quicker and it doesn't go through customs.

While I wait for them to arrive, I am still trying to reduce the use of plastic produce bags. Normally, I put any produce in a bag, and that's silly. If I buy a melon, why does it need a bag? Ditto for a single mango, bunch of bananas or even a couple of one fruit. I even used to put my grapes, which come in a bag, into another bag. Why?

There is one area that I don't think I can stop using bags. Raw meat. I am a little anal about making sure they don't drip or leak, so I will continue using bags for those. Oh yes, and garbage bags. I think those are still a necessary use.