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Metro just can't do it....

One year ago, a tremendous step was taken upon the path of protecting the Red Sea environment and its natural resources. The governor’s decision to ban the use and distribution of plastic bags was a bold decision applauded by all those concerned about the future of our ecosystem, economy, and livelihood. This decision was vital for the preservation of biodiversity in the Red Sea, as most of these plastic bags end up in the sea or on land causing devastating impacts on our environment. In 2005 it is estimated that the cause of death of 70% of the deceased turtles in the Red Sea was ingestion of plastic. Plastic bags smother corals, entangle seabirds, and choke marine mammals, causing death at sea and on land. Unfortunately, one year after the passing of this decree, plastic bags are still commonly provided by reputable establishments that are known for their high standards. As being the largest supermarket chain in Egypt, Metro Market continues to provide plastic bags to its customers. As a subsidiary of Mansour, one of the biggest holding companies in Egypt, it is shameful that they blatantly disregard the law and actively participate in the destruction of the Red Sea environment by continually covering our coast, sea and land with plastic bags. This is an irresponsible act that must be stopped NOW! Experience shows that reusable paper or cloth “Tote” bags are an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bags. Many shops in the Red Sea Governorate, especially the big supermarket chains, already banned plastic bags and switched to this eco-friendly option. These bags (paper or cloth) are sold at the cashier. In essence it is a small price to pay to make the Red Sea aesthetically beautiful and environmentally sound. Metro has a responsibility towards our environment and as being the largest supermarket chain in Egypt the resistance to take this responsibility is unjustifiable! We want Metro to stop distributing plastic bags and start to care for our nature. We want them to be role models like Abu Ashara or Spinney’s, who ecologically aware give out paper and cloth bags. If those supermarket chains manage to give out eco-friendly bags, then why does the biggest chain not have the ability to do so as well? The enforcement of regulations that protect our environment must be by the community, by individuals that are passionate about the protection of our environment and about the protection of our livelihood. Enough damage has already been done and our environment cannot handle much more!