A Friday Freebie: Be Kind to the Environment

We have all become accustomed to using various disposable items. Newspaper articles encouraging recycling are commonplace. In recent years, many retailers have encouraged shoppers to utilize reusable bags, and avoid those handy, but landfill clogging single-use plastic bags. Many even sell reusable bags for a nominal fee. Once you break the bad habit of depending upon stores to supply plastic bags, bringing your own reusable bag becomes part of your shopping ritual.

According to the Whole Foods Market blog, the U.S. disposes of approximately 100 billion plastic bags each year and only recycles a mere 0.6 % of them. That's staggering! The blog also notes that "Americans throw away 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year’s."

While it may lack convenience to consider using your own shopping bags at school, perhaps you can make an effort, at least occasionally. When you are home enjoying your holiday shopping, begin developing the habit. To get you started, you can request a free reusable bag and have it shipped to your dorm or apartment.