Yellowknife, N.W.T. - People in the NWT are getting another 25-cent reminder to bring their own bags when they go shopping.

It's been more than a year since the GNWT started charging a quarter for plastic bags in grocery stores, and now the government is expanding the rule to include bags from all retail stores, including book stores, pharmacies and clothing shops.

The only exceptions to the fee are bags used for bulk items like produce, baked goods, candy, hardware items and bags used for prescriptions.

Yellowknife resident Henry Zoe supports the fee and wants to see more eco-friendly choices when it comes to the use of bags.
"I would rather have them charge then making have more plastic go into the garbage and stuff. If people are really adamant about using plastic, then they have to pay for it."

The store manager at the Bookcellar, Judith Drinnan, said it's too early to see if her customers have adjusted, but she isn't exactly buying into the new fee.

"(Laughs) Looks like another piece of government red tape as far as the administration goes. Frankly, I would’ve liked to have seen bags cancelled all together and just forced every one into a position where it’s easy enough to carry cloth bag. Why do we need plastic?"

A spokesperson with the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources said the government uses money collected from the bags toward future waste reduction and recycling programs.

As an added incentive, the GNWT is preparing to mail out two nylon shopping bags to all residents in the territory.

CJCD Mix 100 News