On April 4, Abhiramapuram Neighbourhood Residents’ Association (AbhiNeRA) launched a campaign to encourage residents to carry their own bags while shopping, and not accept any bags from shops.
The campaign was launched at two grocery and supply stores in the neighbourhood.
“The overuse of plastic bags, which are freely supplied by shops, has been causing a huge problem in terms of garbage disposal, as they end up in landfills. This campaign is meant to address this issue,” says Sushi Natraj, a member of AbhiNeRA.
“We have been speaking to shop owners individually. But we decided to take up this initiative to ensure greater results.”
The association procured reusable bags emblazoned with ‘Say No To Plastic’ and ‘Carry Your Own Shopping Bag’ lines.
“For the duration of the campaign, these bags will be distributed to shoppers, reminding them to carry their own bags every time they go shopping,” she says.
Resident-volunteers will be present at two locations on 4th Street, Abhiramapuram, for a week, to create awareness among shoppers.
They will work in two shifts — 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Posters reading ‘When you go shopping, remember to take your list, your money and your own shopping bag!’ have also been put up at both locations.
“Commercial establishments have been supportive of this initiative. The MLA has also encouraged shop owners to stop selling plastic bags,” says Sushi.
As its next plan of action, AbhiNeRA will carry out regular reviews and also take the idea to neighbouring localities.
