Chamber backs recycle bags

(CNS): Despite the recent controversy over its support for the dolpinariums the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its annual Earth Day and parading its green credentials once again. The Chamber will be continuing is collaborating with the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office initiated in 2008 to draw attention to the effects of plastic bags on the environment and to encourage residents to stop using them and move to recycle bags which have been designed for the event.

Thousands of plastic bags end up in our landfill each month. But everyone has a choice whether to use plastic bags or reusable cloth bags. It should be everyone’s responsibility to make the most ecologically aware, and sound decision whether to use a bag that will take 1,000 years to disintegrate in a landfill or a bag that reduces our carbon footprint,” said Chamber President Stuart Bostock.

The Governor Stuart Jack said his office along with the FCO were pleased to be working with the Chamber again towards a cleaner environment in the Cayman Islands. “I would urge everyone to play their part by using these bags and by helping to clean up our beaches and roadsides,” he said.

The Chamber of Commerce 12th Annual Roadside and Beach Clean Up will take place on Saturday, 25 April. This event presents a great volunteer opportunity and a way to give back to the community. The Chamber is seeking residents, schools, businesses and community organisations to participate in the clean-up effort.

The time commitment is in the morning (7:00 am – 11:00 am) to focus on an area in need of clean-up. For this community service activity, clean-up means choosing an area that has been designated, or suggesting an area not on the Chamber’s list and picking up trash. The Chamber will provide bags and gloves for the task. The first 1,000 volunteers will receive a free Earth Day T-shirt and recyclable shopping bag. For more information on the event please contact Kennedy Powery on 949 8090 ext 124 or go online to www.caymanchamber.ky