Compostable Bags
The Co-op has been asked if compostable plastic bags are a viable alternative to the standard plastic bags offered in the produce and meat departments.
For several reasons, compostable bags are not in line with the Co-op’s goals and standards.
Not compostable at home
Very few if any compostable bags will break down in a backyard composting system. Most require industrial composting equipment, which is not available to Ashland or Medford waste management subscribers. Most brands carry the ASTM D6400 designation, which signifies ‘compostable in municipal and industrial composting facilities’ - facilities which are not available in the Rogue Valley.
Production practices
Many of the bio-plastics and compostable plastics are made from GMO corn, cultivated with non-organic practices that include pesticides and herbicides.
Arable land to grow packaging instead of food
Food security is already an issue across the country. Devoting land that could grow healthy foods to create single-use packaging instead is not a trade-off that the Co-op supports.
Durability
These single-use bags are weaker and prone to puncture, leading to less re-use and increasing the demand for a single-use replacement.
The Co-op will continue to research alternatives as new technologies come to market. Until then, we will encourage behavior change at the consumer level through the promotion of affordable, reusable bags.
More Co-op News
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people move from crisis to stability, OHRA builds more capable individuals, stronger families, and a
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January Change for Good Partner: Ashland Food Angels
December Change for Good Partner: Rogue Action Center
December's Change for Good Partner is
Rogue Action Center
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November Change for Good Partner: Vesper Meadow Education Program
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October Change for Good Partner: AFC Gives Community Fund
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September Change for Good Partner: Truth to Power
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July Change for Good Partner: Ashland Food Angels
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Celebrate Ashland Food Co-op's 50th Anniversary
Ashland Food Co-op has been a staple in our community for 50 years and invites you to celebrate this anniversary with them on June 3rd, 2022 from 5:00 PM-8:00 PM, at the AFC employee parking lot for dancing, food, face painting and more!
Music by Eight Dollar Mountain and Wild and Blue.
Siano's Karibbean Cookhouse, Walkabout Brewing Co. and Rogue Kombucha will be joining us with delicious food and beverages available for purchase.