The Cochrane Eagle is laying down some rubber beginning March 19.
No, we’re not going to roar up and down River Avenue on four wheels.
After careful consideration, and feedback from our readers, we’ve decided to ditch single-use plastic bags on our home-delivered newspapers. Starting Thursday, March 19 Cochranites can expect their beloved Cochrane Eagle to arrive on their doorstep in the compact embrace of a rubber band.
Yes, a simple rubber band.
We figured it was time. More than 86 per cent of plastic waste is going into Canadian landfills and only nine per cent of plastic waste is recycled. The federal government has plans to bring in a ban on certain single-use plastics in 2021. Businesses, municipalities and some provincial jurisdictions have already started to ban some plastics.
And with Cochrane being environmentally conscious, it likely isn’t too long before town council puts in a similar ban. It’s best we get used to seeing less of it so we don’t miss it as much when it’s gone.
While it is more cost effective to make new plastic than to recycle used plastic, the best option is still reduce and reuse. Even compostable bags can break down into macroplastics (particles greater than 5 millimetres) that harm marine life, or, microplastics that can be absorbed into the soil, water or air.
The Cochrane Eagle isn’t exactly leading the way, but we’re trying to do better. A proverb says it best: “It is better to take many small steps in the right direction than to make a great leap forward only to stumble backward.”
Take that small step with us. We challenge you to use less plastics in your everyday life. Make that nominal investment in reusable grocery bags and produce bags. Use washable containers for lunches and eat your food with reusable utensils.
If you require plastic, try and reuse it as much as possible and ensure it’s properly recycled at the end of its life.
As for that rubber band, you’ll find plenty of use for the versatile loop of stretchy rubber. Keep them in your office, craft room or kitchen. You’ll thank us when you need it.
So enjoy your read with the knowledge there is less plastic in the world.
