Have you noticed as you are paying for your groceries, that you are being charged .5 cents for each plastic bag? Many stores have this tax in effect and it is meant to go towards an Environmental Initiative. I think it is a step in the right direction for two reasons; it makes us think twice about taking a plastic bag, and if the money goes towards inspiring a plastic bag free world then Yipeee!  I read an article recently in the National Post saying:  

Several major grocery chains have reported a dramatic drop in the number of bags distributed since the bylaw came into effect in 2009, but critics have blasted the tax, the proceeds of which can go entirely to retailers.  The city encourages the money be given to community or environmental initiatives, but can’t force businesses to do so.

Read more: http://news.nationalpost.com/2010/12/30/ford-seeking-to-abolish-plastic-bag-tax/#ixzz1AwOUPQUv 

I asked Shoppers Drug Mart where the money is going and this is what they said:

“Hi Jenny. A portion of the money we collect goes to support the Shoppers Drug Mart Weekend to End Women’s Cancers while the remaining funds are reinvested into our energy management and waste diversion programs.”

What is the real cost of a plastic bag? They end up in the landfill, the last for up to 1000 years, they are made from Petroleum.

So to everyone out there getting plastic bags what do you think of the 5 cent tax? To all of the retailers charging the tax where is the money going?

Would love to hear from you!