The Plastic Problem

Did you Know . . .

The average household in South Euclid uses 1,500 plastic bags a year, with most ending up in landfills or as litter?
Lake Erie, our primary source of drinking water through the Euclid Creek watershed, is polluted with more than 5.5 million pounds of plastic?

Together, we can change that!

Why Should Retailers Reduce Plastic?

Cuyahoga County’s Disposable Bag Ban prohibits stores from providing plastic bags at checkout. While compliance is currently voluntary, many larger retailers have already eliminated plastic checkout bags due to their environmental commitments. To learn mmore about the County's Bring Your Own Bag initiative, click here.

Benefits for Retailers

Customers support it. In a 2019 survey, 72% of Cuyahoga County shoppers backed the plastic bag ban.
Join the sustainability movement. Many retailers have seen that reducing plastic waste not only benefits the environment but also strengthens their brand’s image.
Lower overhead costs. By promoting reusable bags, you reduce the demand—and cost—of single-use checkout bags.
Protect our environment. Supporting reusable bags helps keep Lake Erie and our neighborhoods free of plastic pollution, safeguarding our natural resources and promoting a healthier, more competitive community.

How to Transition from Reusable Bags

Remind customers to bring their bags. Place “Remember Your Bags” signs at the entrance and in the parking lot.
Offer reusable bags. Stock and sell woven bags near the checkout that are rated for at least 75 uses and can carry up to 18 pounds.
Provide incentives. Encourage customers to bring their own bags by offering small incentives.
Leverage resources. Visit the Communications Toolkit for tips and strategies to help your store transition smoothly.

At the Checkout

Ask, “Do you NEED a bag?” The question encourages customers to consider whether or not they really need one.
Show appreciation. Thank customers who bring their own bags.
Promote reusable bags. Remind customers that reusable bags are sturdier and better for longer shopping trips, especially when walking or using public transit.
If providing paper bags, slip a postcard/note inside promoting the BYOBags program.
Offer alternatives. Let customers use leftover cardboard boxes for their purchases.

For Retailers

Let us know if you're interested in reducing your plastic footprint. Contact us.

The Plastic Problem

Together, we can change that!

Why Should Retailers Reduce Plastic?

Benefits for Retailers

Customers support it. In a 2019 survey, 72% of Cuyahoga County shoppers backed the plastic bag ban.

Join the sustainability movement. Many retailers have seen that reducing plastic waste not only benefits the environment but also strengthens their brand’s image.

Lower overhead costs. By promoting reusable bags, you reduce the demand—and cost—of single-use checkout bags.

Protect our environment. Supporting reusable bags helps keep Lake Erie and our neighborhoods free of plastic pollution, safeguarding our natural resources and promoting a healthier, more competitive community.

How to Transition from Reusable Bags

At the Checkout

For Retailers