PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — It’s been a little over a year since businesses in Pittsburgh were banned from using single-use plastic bags.
While it might be inconvenient to some customers, Giant Eagle’s paper bag fees have been going into the community and improving places you and your family can enjoy.
Since last October, Pittsburgh shoppers have been bringing their own bags to the grocery store or buying alternative ones at checkout.
The city’s plastic bag ban is about reducing plastic waste in communities. But did you know the paper bag fees at Giant Eagle stores are being put to good use? Fifty percent of those fees go to the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy.
“The funds from this reinvestment are really making parks better for all Pittsburghers and visitors alike,” said Alana Wenk, director of advancement for the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy.
Wenk said the money has already planted and grown several events and initiatives. The fees allowed the non-profit organization to purchase a brand-new electric landscape vehicle.