(plastic bags banned in PEI) (submitted)
The deputy mayor of Quispamsis would like to see the use of plastic bags by local retailers banned by April 2020.
Libby O’Hara says it was prompted by the presentations at council by students about the devastating impacts of climate change.
“When kids are this serious about something, we can’t afford to just give them lip service. Change is very difficult and going from plastic bags to reusable bags is going to be very difficult.” O’Hara said.
The idea was supported unanimously by the council and O’Hara thinks everyone has their radar up when it comes to environmental issues like this.
Africa is leading the world in plastic bag bans https://t.co/isK94qROZO pic.twitter.com/jByLM3qm6n
— World Economic Forum (@wef) May 23, 2019
“Whether it’s plastic straws or plastic bags, the use of plastic in our environment, we are finding through scientific research this is not a good thing.”
O’Hara expects there may be push back but, she thinks having this discussion now can allow a prospective new business owner in the community the chance to be on the front line of this issue.
“[They might say] ‘okay, I want to be the leader in this environmental issue that is going to give people the idea that I am friendly to the community and friendly to the environment’ and people will look up to you for that.” O’Hara said.
As for the next step, O’Hara says the matter will be discussed by the town of Quispamsis climate change committee and they will look at the impact of banning single-use plastic bags examining how to manage it and police it.
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