Dear Sir,

I am writing to express my strong support for the reintroduction of paper bags in stores across our community.

Paper bags are an excellent alternative to plastic bags. They are biodegradable, recyclable and can be reused multiple times before being recycled. Moreover, paper bags are made from renewable resources, which means they are more environmentally friendly than their plastic counterparts.

“Paper bagz jus’ end up in de trash, bie!”

So do most paper-based products, but they will all break down within our lifetimes. Also, there are so many more uses for them! Without them, how am I supposed to adequately mix the seasoning on my popcorn? What about soaking up the grease from my French fries? Nothing works better for masking off projects than some masking tape attached to a paper bag. When I go out this summer and struggle to light my coal BBQ, I need to know that I have a supply to have my back.

“Watchumeen, bie! You should be usin’ reuuzable bags!”

That’s not wrong, and while it is the correct answer, it is not normalised yet. I always forget my reusable bags. I also feel it is unfair for a “certain establishment” to force their customers to purchase a new reusable bag with each purchase if you don't have one to hand. I have so many of this company’s reusable bags, I could turn Morgan’s Point into a blanket fort. Paper bags would serve as the perfect temporary solution until reusable bags become normalised.

I encourage our local stores to consider the reintroduction of paper bags, and I implore our fellow citizens to support this initiative. Embracing the use of paper bags is not just a return to a simpler time; it is a powerful statement about our commitment to preserving our environment and building a better future — and more evenly mixed popcorn and French fries.

EDWIN BENTO

Hamilton Parish