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November 11, 2009 Jay Finegan, 287-1445
Rep. Knapp Welcomes Launch of Reusable Bags Campaign

AUGUSTA – State Rep. Jane Knapp says the new program to cut down on the use of plastic and paper shopping bags presents Mainers with an excellent opportunity to improve the environment in their everyday lives.

The new “Got Your Bags, Maine?” campaign, announced at a State House press conference on November 9, aims to reduce the usage of paper and plastic single-use checkout bags by 33 percent in the next three years. Maine retailers distribute an estimated 700 million disposable bags every year. The campaign will encourage consumers to switch to reusable bags made of cloth or other durable fabrics.

Rep. Knapp (R-Gorham) is credited with launching the program, based on a bill she sponsored in the Legislature’s first session. Her bill, LD 622, “An Act to Promote the Accessibility and Use of Reusable Bags,” was converted to a resolution for further study of the issue. In the end, the effort touched off a movement by government agencies and the business community to bring the idea to fruition.

“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity, especially considering how effective this style of a campaign has proven to be,” said Rep. Knapp, a retired biology teacher. “A similar program in California has been very effective by working with businesses to encourage maximum participation. We look forward to making this work here in Maine.”

Maine business organizations have already enlisted in the program. At present, the group includes the Maine Grocers Association, the Maine Merchants Association and the Maine Chamber of Commerce. Numerous Maine grocers and retailers also are involved, such as the Home Depot, T.J. Maxx, Renys, Rite Aid, Wal-Mart and Hannaford Supermarkets.

“The impetus is to positively encourage citizens to reduce substances entering the waste stream,” said Rep. Knapp. “Those 700 million bags end up in landfills, on our streets as litter and in lakes and rivers. By using tote bags instead, we can make a real difference.”