In the past month, I’ve noticed that Central Market has been asking if I need bags for my groceries. CVS has also been giving me paper bags instead of their usual plastic bags. (I assume in order to preserve the environment.) This seems ironic due to the three-foot long receipt they give me at checkout, but I’m not one to deny coupons. Dallas stores are jumping on Austin’s reusable products bandwagon, and I’ve decided to hitch a ride too. Remember these items next time you go shopping:
1. This January, Dallas followed the reusable bag trend and adopted an “environmental fee” of $0.05 to use stores’ plastic or paper bags. Not only are reusable bags helpful for the environment, they’re also cost-effective for customers and retailers. My roommate, who’s in a very committed relationship with Mother Nature, has been reusing bags before it was “cool” and says that they “reduce so much unnecessary waste and are sturdier so you can carry more.” Her favorite is a Whole Foods reusable bag made out of recycled bottles- dual environmentally friendly! (Be sure to check out the the next issue of D Home. Our creative director is showing off some fancy reusable bags that she conjured up.)
2. Shopping is sure to work up a thirst, but before you reach for a bottle of water, remember that it is extremely detrimental to the environment and our bodies. Chemicals can seep out of the plastic and into the water we’re consuming. Reusable bottles are the easier, cheaper, and healthier way to go. CamelBak carries affordable options that are made with BPA-free materials.
3. If you’re making a trip to Target, make sure to bring your MP3 player. No, not for you to jam out during your shopping trip. Since 2010, Target has offered recycling stations where you can safely dispose of your old cell phones, MP3 players, and ink cartridges. This will prevent lead, mercury, and other toxins from posing health and environmental risks.
