Single use plastic bags disappeared from checkouts at Lithgow’s Woolworths store on June 20 as part of a push to reduce pollution.
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The supermarket chain stated that the move would mean 3.2 billion single-use less plastic bags would be in circulation every year.
A recent shopper survey showed the move had broad support (74.7 per cent)
Woolworths Lithgow store manager, Brendan Edwards said the store was pleased customers were behind the change.
“This is a landmark day for our community, to help support a greener future for Australia. We are proud to say that from now on, single-use plastic bags are gone from our store for good,” he said.
“What we’re trying to do with this change is encourage more customers to bring their own reusable bags when shopping, so we can prevent plastic bags from reaching our waterways and reduce the overall production of plastics.
“We know it may take some time for shoppers to form new habits, which is why we’ve been working hard to get the message out to local customers to remember to bring their own bags over the past few months. Putting ‘reusable bags’ at the top of your shopping list, keeping a couple in the car or leaving a post-it note on the fridge are some simple tricks that could work as a reminder.”
Reusable bags can be purchased from the store. Funds from the ‘Bag for Good’ reusable bags will fund the Junior Landcare grants program, which encourages young Australians to play an active role in ensuring the sustainable future of their environment.
Coles will be following suit and banning single use plastic bags on July 1.