Local conservationist encourages people to use reusable bags

A Fourways-based conservationist and businesswoman who advocates for a plastic-free South Africa has challenged members of the public to embark on a 30-day challenge and not use plastic bags when going shopping.

Ellen Cooper said this challenge could help open the eyes of many people about the impact of plastic on the environment and help them save money by not having to buy plastic bags.

Cooper is the founder of Conscious Lifestyle Collective, an organisation and market place that focuses on eco-friendly products.

She said the celebration of Plastic Bag Free Day on July 3 should be used as a platform to raise awareness about the impact of plastic on the environment. “Plastic is considered to be one of the biggest environmental threats to the health of planet earth and survival of life on it. Many people, especially here in South Africa, are not aware of the negative impact caused by plastic to the environment,” she said.

“South Africa is facing an enormous eco-challenge. Dealing with this challenge requires a joint effort from every corner of our society. I am of a view that bigger organisations should be held liable and encouraged to educate people about the catastrophic impact of plastic use,” she explained.

Cooper added that her organisation would embark on an awareness campaign to educate people about the effects of tons of plastic used and thrown away every day.

She concluded, “We are going to embark on awareness trials in schools and in different communities to teach and encourage people to use reusable shopping bags.

“We need to be proactive in order to preserve our environment and our planet. I am currently co-writing an eco-friendly book that will educate and guide individuals on how and where to start living more environmentally friendly.”