In a significant shift aimed at reducing waste, major retailers like Walmart Canada and the LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) are moving from reusable plastic bags to single-use paper bags. This decision follows widespread feedback that Walmart’s previous reusable fabric bags, which became mandatory after Canada’s single-use plastic bag ban, were piling up in homes and, ultimately, ending up in recycling bins. However, the switch to paper is now sparking environmental concerns, with many experts warning that paper bags may not be the sustainable solution retailers aim for.
Walmart customer Steve Calarco from Edmonton has already collected more than 20 paper bags from recent grocery deliveries. He points out that nearly 30% to 40% of these bags suffer tears or damage, making them unsuitable for reuse, thus contributing to waste. “That does absolutely nothing to reduce waste,” he said, questioning if switching to paper bags truly reduces the environmental impact of shopping bags.
Walmart’s recent move aligns with trends among other Canadian retailers. The LCBO, Ontario’s primary liquor store chain, had eliminated single-use bags in 2023 but is reintroducing paper options after Premier Doug Ford’s directive. Ford emphasized the need for an alternative that avoids customers carrying alcohol openly if they forget their reusable bags. Despite its intent, environmental experts like Tony Walker from Dalhousie University’s School for Resource and Environmental Studies argue that even recycled paper bags aren’t sustainable. Walker explains that reprocessing paper bags still requires significant energy and resources, leading to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental pollutants.
Another expert, Calvin Lakhan of York University’s “Waste Wiki” project, adds that many paper bags are low-grade and do not endure the recycling process well. Consequently, they often end up in landfills after a single use. This is especially concerning when considering the federal government’s push toward a “circular economy” aimed at minimizing waste by reusing products whenever possible. The Yukon territory already bans both plastic and paper bags, citing environmental impacts of transporting materials long distances.
In response to the growing criticism, Walmart says it continues to explore sustainable alternatives, with a current recycling program for excess reusable bags remaining active. Retailers like Metro have begun offering bagless delivery options, using cardboard boxes or plastic bins. Walmart customer Steve Calarco suggests that cardboard boxes, already used to package goods in stores, may present a viable option for grocery delivery.
While the journey toward environmentally friendly retail solutions continues, experts warn that finding sustainable options will require creative, circular approaches that go beyond single-use materials. For now, the debate on paper versus plastic serves as a reminder of the environmental complexities retailers face in reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices
Source: Swifteradio.com
