Plastic bags don’t grow on trees, though you might think differently when you look at the river banks in some countries of the Adriatic region.
Worldwide, five billion disposable plastic bags are produced annually. The European Union has adopted an ordinance by which all its members by the end of 2019 must reduce the use of plastic bags to 90 bags per capita, and by the end of 2025 to 40. Many states have forbidden the use of free plastic bags at retail outlets. In Slovenia, this law has been in effect since the beginning of this year.
Aware that it is necessary to reduce the consumption of plastic bags Mercator has started an initiative to address this ecological problem. In addition to the fact that Tik Tak bags are now charged at check-out, their design has been added a striking green colour and a warning that the bag is re-usable.
Furthermore, bags made of 100% recycled material have been introduced because Mercator promotes re-use of resources, ie the processing of waste plastics and their use for new products. That is why their products are 100% recycled and 100% reusable. They have thus launched several durable products:
- Durable Mercator bags of various dimensions
- Durable bags in the produce department – the VEGI bags (bags are sold in 3/1 packages, are made from recycled plastics and are washable),
- Practical collapsible crates and carts that are ideal for simple M Scan shopping.
Mercator also encourages its own employees to more responsible use of bags, so all of them received a durable bag as a gift.
Raising awareness of environmental issues is also being done in partnership with FOX TV and National Geographic, as Mercator is the sponsor of the Planet or Plastic? show. With somewhat shocking episodes dedicated to the environment, Mercator wants to contribute to greater public awareness of the responsible use of plastics, bags and other disposable plastic products. In collaboration with famous Slovenians, the company wants to motivate the public to use durable products.
Mercator is aware that they can give great contribution to the protection of environment with small steps. But what have you done today for a cleaner, healthier environment?
