Changes to how we use plastic bags can be easily incorporated into daily life

I have read all the Voices letters on the subject of disposable plastic bags and, like some of the writers, I have been taking plastic bags for groceries sparingly for years and using reusable bags.

I bring a cooler bag with me for frozen and chilled products, which makes sense in many ways, for example, to keep food from spoiling on the way home. I take only a few minutes to wash it afterwards, if necessary.

As mentioned in “Lifestyle changes needed to curb plastic bag usage” (Oct 11), more retailers could ask customers if they need a bag. Pharmacies and those selling dry goods come to mind. Several already do and some customers put the goods in their own bags if they are reminded.

One furniture and household giant here does not supply free plastic bags, which customers have learnt to accept.

Perhaps what is needed is a mindset change and more effort to use recycling bins/collections rather than throwing everything down the convenient rubbish chute. Then we may not need so many bags.

Other small changes could easily be made, such as draining liquid or semi-liquid refuse to reduce volume and mess before disposal. It may take a little more time, but some convenience can be sacrificed for our fragile planet and our future generations.

Plastic bag reduction and recycling may sound like a small contribution, but it is something the ordinary person could easily incorporate into daily life.