Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL HomeReusable shopping bag giveaway highlights reef protection

Reusable shopping bag giveaway highlights reef protection

PUKALANI, Maui (KHNL) -  In celebration of International Year of the Reef, Mayor Charmaine Tavares is urging all Maui County's residents and visitors to do their part to protect coral reefs.

Mayor Tavares, Council Member Mike Molina and Haleakala National Park Superintendent Marilyn Parris spent last Saturday morning bagging groceries in reusable shopping bags at Pukalani Superette to encourage customers to decrease their use of plastic bags.

"It's great to have a business leader like Pukalani Superette step forward and support the protection of our ocean resources," said Mayor Tavares.  "Not only do they care deeply about our island's limited resources, but by participating in an event like this, they join us in our efforts to educate as many people as possible."

Council member Molina says it's important to encourage the public to reduce dependency on non-biodegradable bags.

"Every little bit helps," said Molina.  "When people make use of reusable shoppping bags instead of plastic bags, we are all helping to protect our ocean resources."

Saturday's promotion was the first of several that will take place at other locatons throughout Maui County.