This may not be about Architecture, but the plastic bag is something that North American's just can't seem to get rid of! Even though they clog up landfills, do not decompose for a few thousand years, and require 11 re-uses just to make a plastic bag worth the oil required to produce it*, it seems, too conveniently, part of every shopping experience! Looking to
Ireland as an example, and among US cities like
San Francisco,
New York, and others, people are beginning to see how easy and economically important it is to phase out the bag.
Many grocery stores like whole foods, and more and more, local grocery stores, offer reusable bags for $1 each at check-out! Not only are they stronger than the plastics, but they are easier to carry, and for minimal commitment, make a big difference in the environment.
Our favorite:
Baggu Bags in a variety of fun colors! Really, when was the last time you went for a big grocery trip and couldn't plan to bring a couple reusable bags with you....
