MRTF launches reusable bag program
After the environmental win of banning plastic straws, the Marine Resources Task Force is tackling the next offender: plastic bags.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach can’t ban plastic bags because of a state statute. But, it can encourage residents and visitors to not use them.
The town’s environmental committee is seeking sponsors to help purchase 5,000 quality canvas bags that can be handed out at resorts, hotels and outside Publix and CVS.
Sponsors can pay at different levels and get their logo put on the bag as well as get a quantity of bags to distribute at their business. There are two spots for top sponsors at a $2,500 donation and 10 spots for sponsors at a $1,000 donation. On the other side of the bag, there will be a list of facts about plastic bags and pollution, along with the town’s logo.
Canvas bags are more expensive than reusable bags made from other, cheaper materials; however, other bags are often made out of plastic, defeating the point. The canvas bags are sturdy, and washable.
MRTF members Steve Johnson and Shannon Mapes presented the program at Thursday’s Chamber of Commerce meeting.
“The objective is to position Fort Myers Beach as a ‘green’ destination,” Johnson said.
The program was modeled off of the Coastal Keepers club at the Sanibel Sea School; it also used canvas bags and sponsors.
The canvas bags are washable, and unlike plastic reusable bags, are made out of natural materials.
Johnson and Mapes said they considered rescheduling their talk to the Chamber, being sensitive to the water quality issues on the beach right now. But Chamber President Jacki Liszak told them to come anyway.
“I’m excited about this. It’s one more step we can take to elevate our beach town,” Liszak said.
If a business or individual is interested in being a sponsor, contact Johnson at sajohnson311@gmail.com.