PCC's bag refund program

Think reuse, support community

PCC made the decision to eliminate the use of plastic shopping bags in October 2007.

Since that time, the number of reusable totes sold in our stores has surpassed 83,000 bags and the positive effects of this decision have been felt throughout our community.

Environmentally, the reuse of shopping bags has eliminated an estimated 3.3 million plastic bags from entering the waste stream. There has also been a reduction in toxic emissions from the manufacturing of plastic bags and the additional hazards posed to human health and wildlife.

Every time you reuse a bag, a 5-cent refund is donated automatically to two groups that support community sustainability: PCC Food Bank Program and the PCC Farmland Trust.

Thus far in 2008, shoppers have reused nearly one million bags and bag donations have raised some $39,000, equally shared by the PCC Food Bank Program and PCC Farmland Trust.

As a result, you have helped provide local food banks with nearly 45,000 pounds of food this year alone. The PCC Farmland Trust has preserved over 500 acres of farmland and is seeking additional parcels for purchase.

Thank you for your continued support and keep reusing your bags to help benefit our community!

And please remember — you can choose to have your bag refund credited to you on your final bill at any time. Simply ask your cashier.