ADVERTISING
EAD is calling for donations of reusable shopping bags – the campaign in support of KAGEL runs until July 21st
To mark International Plastic Bag Free Day on July 3rd, the Darmstadt Municipal Services Department (EAD) is calling for a change in thinking: Single-use plastic bags should be replaced by sustainable, reusable alternatives. An accompanying collection campaign will also support the Kaufhaus der Gelegenheiten (KAGEL) charity shop.
Sustainability through reuse
“Reusable carrier bags prevent waste and protect the environment,” explains City Treasurer André Schellenberg. Anyone who uses reusable bags instead of single-use plastics is making an active contribution to environmental protection. To reinforce this message, EAD employees will be collecting reusable carrier bags until July 21st. These will then be given to KAGEL, where they will be distributed free of charge to customers.
Single-use plastic bags are still widespread despite the ban
Single-use plastic bags have been banned in Germany since January 2022. However, thin produce bags with a wall thickness of less than 15 micrometers (often called "shirt bags") and thicker bags with a wall thickness exceeding 50 micrometers are exempt. According to the German Federal Environment Agency, these regulations are sometimes circumvented through minimal design changes. In 2022, approximately 2.5 billion "shirt bags" were used nationwide – about 30 per person.
Recycling is often ineffective
Single-use plastic bags consume a lot of resources during production and often end up directly in the trash. Only a small proportion are recycled. According to the Federal Ministry for the Environment, paper bags fare hardly better, as they also consume a lot of energy during production – however, they decompose more quickly in the environment.
Recommendations for environmentally friendly alternatives
The Federal Ministry for the Environment recommends durable, reusable solutions:
- Carrier bags made from recycled plastic or polyester
- Backpacks or shopping baskets
- Fabric bags made from recycled material or organic cotton
- Reusable fruit and vegetable nets instead of "t-shirt bags"
In Darmstadt, biodegradable plastic bags made from renewable raw materials are not allowed for the collection of organic waste, as they do not decompose quickly enough in the composting process.
Further information and tips are available online from the EAD at www.ead.darmstadt.de .
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/DK)
