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!
Be a Part of the Solution
In partnership with Cuyahoga County and South Euclid retailers, we are committed to creating a healthier, more sustainable community by reducing the use of plastic. Won't you join us? Cutting plastic waste helps protect natural resources, ensures access to clean drinking water, and fosters sustainable economic growth. By bringing reusable bags when you shop, you show your support for eliminating single-use plastic checkout bags and reducing waste that contaminates our streams, lakes, and land. Your efforts contribute to healthier, thriving communities throughout Cuyahoga County.
Tips for Breaking the Plastic Bag Habit
Here are some easy ways to make a lasting change:
-
Ask for a reusable bag when you purchase an item at either LT Squared, True Value Hardware, or Uptown Mart. Reuse it for future shopping trips.
-
Use your own bags. Carry your own canvas, vinyl, or cloth bags to the grocery, retail, or convenience store.
-
Reuse plastic bags you already have. If you’ve collected plastic bags, try to reuse them before discarding.
-
Use bags for pet waste. Reuse old bread bags, frozen food bags, or used food storage bags to pick up after your dog during walks.
-
Skip the plastic poop bags. Consider using an unlined scoop or shovel for your pet’s waste and composting it in a backyard dog waste composter.
-
Reuse produce bags. Try mesh or cloth bags for your fresh fruits and vegetables. Ask the clerk to remove items from these bags at checkout so you aren't charged for their weight.
-
Skip the bag altogether. If you're buying one or two items or taking leftovers home from a restaurant, carry them without using a bag.
-
Repurpose other bags. Use old pet food, birdseed, or dry-cleaning bags as liners for your kitchen trash. You might be surprised at how many reusable options are already in your home.
Consider skipping trash liners in smaller bins. For laundry rooms or bedrooms, you may not need a liner. If you prefer one, try paper bags or purchase trash cans with removable, washable liners.
What Else Can You Do?
-
Switch to reusable water bottles instead of bottled water.
-
Use reusable containers for food storage instead of cling wrap or disposable containers.
-
Carry washable, reusable silverware in your lunchbox instead of relying on plastic utensils.