Had councilors focused solely on plastic bags, there would probably be no opposition to this issue. Consumers would still have had the option of using paper bags that are totally biodegradable. So if the issue is truly about reducing our collective plastic imprint, let’s focus on plastic and leave the consumer with a viable paper-bag option at the store. This doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing issue unless it is really designed to manipulate behavior. The bag ordinance should be bagged – not because we are anti-environment but because it is bad legislation! “Plastic or paper” should never have become “plastic and paper.” Shouldn’t there be an either/or option available? Let’s send a message to our elected representatives that we expect them to design problem-solving policies, based on facts that address real issues rather than making policies, based on emotions, that attempt to manipulate personal behaviors.

Barb Bell

Durango