ConservingNow Community Change

Our readers often forward articles about plastic bags that they find interesting or informative.  This article about CVS is from reader Rachel.  I love seeing major retailers making this type of change.  It sends a strong message about reducing plastic bags - the message that it should be on everyone's minds, not just the select few.  And who doesn't like making extra money - I mean, we are bringing our own bags anyway!  Why not get paid for it?

CVS announces program to cut down on single-use bags
Oct. 26 -- CVS/pharmacy, one of the largest retail pharmacies in the U.S., has announced a new program to cut down on the use of single-use plastic bags.
The company has introduced a new program, GreenBagTag, which works in conjunction with its customer loyalty promotion, ExtraCare.

The GreenBagTag is available for purchase at all of the company´s 7,000 stores. Each time customers use a reusable bag or decline a plastic shopping bag, customers scan their GreenBagTag and ExtraCare card; every fourth scan, GreenBagTag cardholders receive a $1 Extra Buck credit on their accounts. These Extra Bucks can be redeemed in store for most merchandise.

Company officials said that fewer than a third of the single-use plastic shopping bags used by customers are recycled. 

The program began today.