This week (September 15th-21st), Surfrider NYC is teaming up with groups across the city to challenge all of New York City to bring their own bags instead of consuming more single-use bags (i.e. paper or plastic) during #BYOBag Week. Our main focus is plastic bags but we’re saying “no” to all single-use carryout bags (including paper) to significantly reduce our environmental footprint.
There are a ton of ways to reduce waste and help keep this planet clean and healthy not just for you but for future generations. Let’s start together today!
We want you to go (at least) one entire week without using a single-use carryout bag. Instead, show off your unique style and commitment to reducing waste with a reusable bag! Count the number of single-use carryout bags you refuse this week and let us know at the end of the week. (Also let us know if you inspired others at the store to do the same!)
Are you ready to help make a huge difference in NYC?! Let’s get started . . .
Tips for the Week:
// Looking for a reusable bag? Start at home. Chances are you have a great bag stashed in a closet somewhere. You can also use a single-use bag that you’ve been hiding under your sink or in a cabinet – as long as it’s not a new one!
// If you don’t have a reusable bag, you can find them almost anywhere. Most grocery stores sell reusable bags in a variety of options. Keep an eye out at community events for reusable bag giveaways. You can even make your own!
// Put your reusable bag in your backpack, purse, or briefcase RIGHT NOW so you don’t forget and for quick access when you’re shopping.
// If you forget your reusable bag – and the item is small enough to fit in your backpack, purse, or whatever you carry – use that! If you’re just buying one or two things you might not even need a bag.
One last thing: Let your friends, family, classmates and coworkers know that you are participating in #BYOBag week! Talk about #BYOBag week on social media then send everyone in your family, office, school and neighborhood this email and invite them to join us!
It’s going to be an awesome week! Have fun!
The NYC League of Conservation Voters
No Impact Project
Citizens Committee for New York City
Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)
Green Schools Alliance
Citizens Campaign for the Environment
plasticbaglaws.org
The Center for Oceanic Awareness, Research, and Education (COARE)
Lower East Side Ecology Center
West 80s Neighborhood Association
Tues, Sept 16
Student Advocacy Day for the Environment
9am: Rally on City Hall steps
10am: Students meet with Council Members and staff
More information at http://www.nylcv.org/studentadvocacyday
Reusable Bag Giveaway near Barclays Center
5-6pm: Citizens Committee for NYC reusable bag giveaway on the corner of Ashland Pl/Hanson Pl. (near Barclays Ctr.) with Council Members Cumbo, Lander, Levin on hand to distribute bags to commuters.
Wed, Sept 17
Reusable Bag Making Workshop at Children’s Museum of the Arts in Tribeca
4-6pm: In coordination with MINDFUL+ created by Chantal Fischzang and Gala Narezo, on view in the Pepperman Family Fine Arts Studio.
103 Charlton St.
NYC, NY 10014
More information: http://cmany.org/events
Thursday, Sept 18
Surfrider NYC Chapter Meeting
7pm: Surfrider representatives will be on hand to discuss and answer questions about current initiatives including #BYOBag Week, Bill 209 and the upcoming People’s Climate March at Threes Brewing, 333 Douglass St, Brooklyn, NY.
RSVP here.
Sat, Sept 20
Reusable Bag Giveaway in Williamsburg
1pm-6pm: Community Outreach Tabling and Reusable Bag Giveaway at Southside Connex Community Street Festival, South 2nd
More info here.
Sun, Sept 21
People’s Climate March
Join Bag It NYC Coalition Members including Surfrider NYC, NRDC and Citizens Committee for NYC at the People’s Climate March. We’ll be holding signs about how single-use bags reduction can lead to reductions in GHG emissions and providing information about the NYC Council bag bill.
More info here.
More events TBA.
