Pathmark Sells 'Green' Shopping Bags

CARTERET, N.J. -- Pathmark Stores here has launched a reusable shopping bag program with Earthwise Bag Co., Commerce, Calif., the companies reported yesterday. Available at all 141 Pathmark stores, Earthwise's reusable bags, which retail at 99 cents, offer an alternative to plastic and paper shopping bags. Pathmark‘s reusable bag program is a companywide initiative to promote environmental awareness, the companies said. "There is an opportunity in the retail community at large to reduce the amount of plastic and paper waste," said Rich Savner, director of public affairs at Pathmark. "Pathmark believes that many customers are environmentally conscious and will be receptive to using the Earthwise bags. And the benefits to consumers are real -- not only are the bags environmentally friendly, inexpensive and aesthetically pleasing, but they can be reused for a variety of purposes." Earthwise said it provides retailers with no-cost consultations on promotional programs, and branding and orders include free merchandising display racks and signs.