Like most Filipinos, I am very fond of going to malls. As a one-stop-shopping area, I find it very convenient to shop, eat and be entertained when I have the luxury of time or when need arises. It’s a very strategic place to be especially for working individuals like myself. With the bulk of people visiting malls everyday for personal and business reasons, sale and purchase of goods are very evident. Packaging is very important in these transactions. Once goods are passed on to the hands of the buyer, these products are then placed in plastic bags. Some establishments started using paper bags; while others advertised the use of canvass ones for carrying conveniences. The plastic bags that these malls use are very strong and durable. Every time I make my purchases, I save the plastic bags I get by folding and storing it for future use. When canvass bags came out, I often bring one with me to put all my purchased stuffs. This is my own way of helping mother earth, to promote a safer and cleaner environment for the future. I thought at least I am making one good contribution to saving mother earth by refusing to use plastic bag, at least one for every purchase.
Two months ago, I bought a pair of shoes and some personal things. Upon paying, I asked the cashier not to put my goods inside a plastic bag since I have a canvass bag with me. I was very confident that they will agree since their establishment patronizes the use of “biodegradable bags” and canvass green bags. I also told them that I will just present my receipt to the guard in the entrance of the department store. To my dismay, both the cashier and the bagger told me that they will not allow my request since they have strict instructions from their management to place all purchased items inside the plastic bag. I asked them twice yet they refused. I was confused to find it a contradiction that they advertise the use of green bags to replace the plastic bags, and yet disregard the request of a customer who supports their campaign to reduce the use of plastic bags. I even told the cashier, “Are you not being oriented on this one, since your employer campaigns for it?” As I walk away from the cashier’s counter with my purchased items inside the plastic bag in my hands, I felt disappointed, for the inconsistencies I witnessed within the mall. I thought if it’s a campaign for our environment, it should be made for the awareness of everyone; the owners, employees, customers and public in general since this matter is a global concern. I still carry with me my good old canvass bag and insist for its use. At least, with that I make my own campaign to reduce, reuse and recycle and hoping that others will make the same move.
When you make your own purchase, try doing the same move I made. I hope that you will have a better experience than the one I had.
