On July 4, 2009, First Alternative Co-op will begin charging 5¢ for every new paper bag used at our checkout registers. This charge is an environmental initiative meant to lessen our dependence on disposable bags and encourage the use of reusable shopping bags. A survey conducted among our customers earlier this year showed overwhelming support for a bag charge.
• An owner survey will determine how the Co-op uses the proceeds from the bag charge.
• Our Beans for Bags program will not change, and customers will still receive one bean for every bag reused at checkout.
• Only the paper handled bags at the registers will be charged for, not the smaller paper bags used for produce and bulk items.
I have been using one of the Blue Co-op Bags for a couple months now. It’s even made from recycled plastic!