I was at a Fry’s grocery store this morning to exchange something, and was shocked to receive a plastic gift card because there happened to be a refund of 0.44 cents! I bet that 2-part plastic card cost about as much.
It reminded me of how much retailers need to educate their staff about not just reducing the plastic bags and reducing energy use etc. I have had to refuse plastic cards from so many other retailers it’s not funny. Several others have told me how they have tried to turn down cards, but store staff don’t seem to care.
But there are some more positive trends to report as well. Some retail outlets are adopting these:
An EcoATMs is yet another fascinating vending unit that accepts e-waste –basically consumer electronics. This machine too, scan the item deposited, and generates a coupon or credit.
- Reverse Recycling is showing up in stores such as Albertsons. Yes, there is such as thing as a Reverse Vending Machine, which can be used to give you store credit for your recyclables.
[...] liked the example of Greenopolis, and the ‘reverse ATM’ –something we have featured here on this blog. It’s all about turning consumers into into [...]
Gift cards may seem impersonal to some, but after years of trying to guess what DVD or CD my children want or don’t already have, I decided to go this route this year. Half the fun is picking out what you want, I think! I’m hoping all will enjoy receiving these in their stockings.