Plastic bags have long been a constant in my life and their effects have been destructive. Our environment, especially our oceans, suffer gravely from our reliance on single-use plastic bags. Animals, both on land and sea, pay the price of our convenience. They consume or suffocate in these bags, often leading to their death. As an individual passionate about nature and its species, I appreciate all forms of life around me. Witnessing the adverse effects of these plastic bags, I have felt uncomfortable and guilty.

Now, I want to translate this personal discomfort into a public initiative. I propose we ban plastic bags in all grocery stores and instead promote convenient, environmentally-friendly alternatives such as paper or reusable bags.

Consider these facts: Every year, we use approximately 1 trillion plastic bags worldwide, and less than 5% of these bags are recycled (Environmental Protection Agency). This means the majority end up in our oceans, contaminating marine life and threatening ecosystems. They also account for over 10% of the washed-up debris that pollutes the US coastline (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).

But it doesn't have to be this way. Multiple cities and countries have already enacted plastic bag bans, drastically reducing their plastic waste and ensuring a healthier future for our planet. By replacing plastic bags with reusable or paper ones in grocery stores, we can significantly cut down on plastic waste and protect our precious environment.

Stand with me now. Demand from our lawmakers that they ban plastic bags in grocery stores. Together, we can make a difference. It's time to put the planet before plastic. Please sign this petition.