Plastic Bag Free Paia

Concerned citizens and merchants are attempting to make Paia the first plastic bag free town in Hawaii. Local residents were inspired by the citizens of Modbury, England and the film Message in the Waves. The group No ‘Mo Plastic Bag is spearheading the charge. They have been getting local merchants to commit to being plastic bag free and providing the community with alternatives to plastic bags. The alternatives include canvas bags and biodegradable bags. Their goal is to have the town plastic free by November 1, 2007. As a surfer, I have seen first hand what plastic bags can do to marine life. I wish the people at No Mo Plastic Bags, the best of luck in their efforts. Hopefully, it will inspire other communities in and around Hawaii to follow suit.