This story on the ABC online website is frustrating. It names newsagencies as being bad guys in the paper or plastic debate. Planet Ark says we’re slow on the uptake. They say we are not aware of the targets of reducing plastic bag usage by 50% by the end of this year.
We’re aware in my newsagency and we have a range of initiatives in play including an active laser toner recycle policy. We have arranged this through Planet Ark. I know of other newsagencies working with them as well.
Given the size of newspapers and the lack of a viable non plastic alternative we prefer to not provide a bag unless a customer asks. It works most of the time and our own plastic bag consumption is down as a result.
This story by the ABC is another example of reporting by press release. I’ve emailed Planet Ark and let them know my frustration.