ConservingNow Community Change

What some local stores are doing for customers who bring their own plastic bags.

Trader Joes:
“Trader Joe's has been selling its reusable canvas bags for more than 30 years, and five years ago, the chain began offering incentives to customers through their "Bring Your Own Bag (BYOB)" program. Trader Joe's spokeswoman Alison Mochizuki said a handful of stores started giving out gift certificates and holding drawings to reward patrons for bringing a bag, and the idea spread.”

Whole Foods Market:
“The grocery store doesn't make a profit off the reusable totes it sells for 99 cents, made from 80 percent recycled plastic. Olivieri said customers who purchase the bags get 5 cents back every time they use them, so the sacks pay for themselves after 20 trips.”

Thanks to http://www.examiner.com/x-21333-Boston-Environmental-News-Examiner~y2009... for the information.