The average American uses 500 plastic bags per year. Durango’s 2019 population estimate was 18,973. That adds up to more than nine million plastic bags used in Durango every year – 25,000 per day, or 1,000 per hour – and that excludes tourists.
What’s the harm in using plastic bags, you ask? They pollute our river, our parks, our city. They degrade into tiny particles that contaminate our water and food chain. They are costly, in the form of higher prices at retail stores and increased taxes for cleanup.
Further, the more money spent on pollution, the less money spent on other public services.
Okay, I admit plastic is not necessarily the problem. It’s the throwaway mindset we have fallen into: using a plastic bag for an average of 12 minutes, throwing it away, grabbing a new one for 12 more minutes, throwing it away, again, and again, and again.
That’s why I’m ecstatic to learn of the introduction of HB21-1162 to the Colorado Assembly, which bans the use of single-use plastic bags by retail stores and food establishments. Find more information online, and watch for the backlash. Who doesn’t support plastic bag legislation? That’s right: Big Plastic! (And your misinformed uncle). They fund public relations campaigns opposing the adoption of bag legislation and file lawsuits against municipalities that pass legislation. Subtle, but effective.
What can you do to fight back? Copy and send this to your representatives. Reuse your bags (no excuses!). Talk to your friends and family. Be the change.
Alex WhittowDurango
