THE BIG PLASTIC BAG DEBATE

PAPER – PLASTIC - REUSABLE

WHY THE BIG DEBATE?

• Some cities believe• Plastic bags are a litter issue

• Plastic bags are a landfill issue

• Plastic bags are an environmental issue

• Plastic bags are a political issue

• Plastic bags are a revenue issue

WHY THE BIG DEBATE?

• Most retailers believe• Plastic bags are cost effective

• Plastic bags should be recycled

• Plastic bags are re-usable

• Plastic bags create jobs

• Plastic bags can be environmentally safe

• Plastic bags reduce fuel costs

PAPER VS. PLASTICWHAT’S THE REAL COST?

•Paper bags more expensive - $4,000-$100,000 annually•Paper bags 7:1 volume•Plastic bag tax costs customers•Plastics use 40% less energy•Paper bags generate 70% more emissions and 50 times more water use•Plastic bags take up less space in the landfill

WHAT’S THE STORY ON REUSABLE BAGS?

• Made in China

• Not recyclable

• Contains lead

• Can grow bacteria, including E. coli

• Takes up more space in landfills

WHAT IS THE SOLUTION?

RECYCLE

• Plastic bags

• Produce bags

• Bread bags

• Newspaper bags

• Dry cleaner bags

Are all 100% Recyclable!

REDUCE

• Train clerks to bag properly – more items per bag

REUSE

• Plastic bags can be used for:• Trash liners

• School lunches

• Pet waste disposal

• Wet diapers

THE TRA AUSTIN PLAN

• A solution to reduce plastic bags

• Encourage the use of reusable bags

• Promote plastic recycling

• Track progress

• Promote sale of products made from recycled plastic

THE DETAILS

• Plastic bag licensing fee

• Credits for recycling

• Reductions and training

WHAT CAN WE ALL DO?

• Use reusable bags

• Do not request a bag for small purchases

• Reuse your plastic (t-shirt) bags

• Recycle all plastic

• After use, tie in a knot

• Visit www.abagslife.com