Plastic Bag – the Redux

Just a brief revisit to this topic, Coincidentally, it seems Ikea have just decided to impose a plastic bag charge of 5p, which will rise to 10p a bag later this year. Go you good Swedish thing. The Observer story can be found here [ ].

Eco Thoughts (of sorts)

This is probably not one of the more entertaining topics once could write about.  But I’ve just returned from a trip to the Lidl after more than a year’s absence. For all those not au fait with Lidle, it is a European grocery store chain (originally from Germany) which targets the lower end of the market. Similar to Australia’s Bi-Lo (but tidier with better lighting), its appeal lies in the fact that customers can cart away basic items in bulk. Although the single consumer can certainly get away with bargains also. The meat, fruit and veg may be a bit come and go, but one can definitely get away with the cheeses and dry goods, particularly the herbs.

What struck me whilst queuing to pay was that in refreshing contrast to the other supermarkets, the shelves beneath Lidl’s cash counter were full of plastic bags of various sizes and strengths, to be purchased by the customer as needed. The basic bag cost 3p. A measly 3p but a charge nevertheless. I don’t suppose Lidl is imposing the charge for altruistic reasons – it is a discount supermarket and in this day and age, shareholders always trump environment. Still, it would be nice to see the other supermarket chains, keener than Lidl to peddle good causes, taking on the war against plastic bags.

Just for the record, I do try to carry a shopper with me wherever I go, but sometimes, darn forgetfulness kicks in and I am forced to add to the burgeoning fleet of bags squashed in between our fridge and the wall.

Off to put a shopper in my bag of choice now.