Are you becoming obsessed with plastic bags yet? I am. The bag phenomenon is everywhere. I mean, I’m hooked on my own canvas bag. Jen is blogging about becoming the “crazy bag lady”, and the other Jennifer started a project that gives them away. Then there’s the numbers: 100 billion each year in the U.S., less than 1% recycled, 1500 used in each 4-person home, etc. How did we get by without them just a few years ago? Why are we just throwing them all away? Why are companies paying for them? Whoosh!

I’m a realist - Even though my family’s “gone reusable” doesn’t mean everyone will - so maybe help is needed. For instance, Whole Foods recently announced they’re eliminating plastic bags from all 270 of their locations. This is good. Bi-Lo will give you 5¢ refund for bringing your own. This is also good. I’d like to see the other big brands follow suit.

Here’s a roundup of where the local big guys stand:

Bi-Lo
Bags: Plastic; Paper; Reusable bags for purchase.
Program: Refund of 5¢ per bag if you bring your own.

Earth Fare
Bags: Plastic; Paper; Reusable bags for purchase.
Program: Do not offer a refund for using your own bags.

Food Lion
Bags: Plastic; Paper.
Program: Do not offer a refund for using your own bags.

Harris Teeter
Bags: Plastic; Paper; Reusable bags for purchase.
Program: Do not offer a refund for using your own bags.

Piggly Wiggly
Bags: Plastic; Paper; Reusable bags for purchase.
Program: Do not offer a refund for using your own bags.

Publix
Bags: Plastic; Paper; Reusable bags for purchase.
Program: Do not offer a refund for using your own bags.

Whole Foods Market
Bags: No plastic; Paper; Reusable bags for purchase.
Program: Refund of 5¢ per bag if you bring your own.