FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Saturday 15 August 2009
Media Release

Dunedin’s youth to lead the way with today's “Plastic Bags Aren’t Free Day”.

Today, Dunedin retailers and shoppers will be confronting and tackling the city’s plastic bag use with an event that will be the first of its kind in New Zealand.

“Plastic Bags Aren’t Free Day” aims to raise awareness of the economic, environmental and social costs of current plastic bag use. The day will see some participating shops asking for a donation of ten cents per shopping bag given out, with the proceeds going to the Orokonui Ecosanctuary. Some businesses are also taking other initiatives to encourage people to bring reusable bags when they shop.

Stalls and activities throughout the downtown area will provide reusable bags as well as food for thought on the issue. The stalls will be located on George St and outside Countdown supermarket.

Organised by the 2009 Dunedin Secondary Students’ Climate Forum (DSSCF), “Plastic Bags Aren’t Free Day” is supported by around 3,000 high school students and officially endorsed by the DCC. Sustainable Dunedin City and DCC Water and Waste Services have provided sponsorship, and Progressive Enterprises has generously donated reusable bags for the event.

DSSCF member, Lizzie Rudd, says the group’s goal is “to make Dunedin a national leader in promoting a lifestyle that uses plastic bags, and other resources, less wastefully. We think the true cost and value of plastic bags should be acknowledged.”

Co-organiser Celia Neilson, who has been visiting stores and inviting them to get involved, says, “The response has mostly been very positive and it's great to see businesses and individuals getting behind this unique Dunedin event.”
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