According to the EPA, 32 million tons of plastic bags were disposed in America in 2011 and only 5.2% were recycled. Consequently, not all of the bags were properly disposed of, resulting in the bags breaking down into the soil, releasing harmful toxins, and disrupting its fertility. Faulty disposal also affects wildlife as animals, unfamiliar with plastic, presume it to be food. Instead of using disposable plastic bags, use reusable tote bags; if you do use plastic bags, I strongly encourage you to recycle them for alternative purposes. Help the effort in reducing plastic bag use; help the effort in protecting our environment.