Shoppers will soon have to find an alternative to plastic bags with a ban being put in place from the start of this year. Residents have some time left until they are totally phased out by May 4.

There is a mixed reaction to the end of plastic bags and the use of green bags. Glenys Martin said she thought the ban was a good idea and that it would help the environment. “People should accept the responsibility of bringing their own bags to the supermarket,” she said.

She said the ban should have been introduced earlier. “Speedy” Miller was not keen on the green bag idea saying they are “awkward” and that he prefers plastic. “It is a good environmental idea to phase out plastic bags, but I prefer them over the other bags,” he said

He suggested that shops could use paper bags and was not fussed if he had to pay a small price for using plastic. The State Government announced that it would begin to phase out plastic bags, like those used at supermarkets, from the start of this year.

But not all bags are being banned with heavier bags still being used as well as fruit and vegetable, compostable and paper bags. Environment and Conservation Minister Jay Weatherill said retailers must provide alternatives so shoppers had a choice. “Let’s resolve to do our bit for the environment by remembering to bring our own bags to the checkout every time we go shopping,” he said.

(Portpirie, 14/01/2009)