KANNUR: The 60-odd supermarkets in Kannur would be scripting history in Green campaigning, for they have brought about a positive change in the mindset of customers and shop-keepers and have successfully said no to plastic. A campaign started in October 2, on an experimental basis, has now spread across the district with most shops abandoning plastic covers used for shopping.From April 2, small provision stores have also agreed to be part of the drive, said V.V. Muneer, owner of Green supermarket, who also has business in the neighbouring district.
“The campaign was a huge success, thanks to businessmen, who have agreed to bear a drop in the number of customers in the initial days. It was not an easy decision to implement, as many of the new customers would not be aware of the campaign. They would either drop shopping plans or move on to the next shop. However, now we are providing biodegradable bags ranging from '6 to '20 as per size,” said Mr Muneer, adding that more than 70 per cent of customers preferred to bring their own carry bags.
The effort was initiated by district collector Mir Muhammed Ali and supported by the district panchayat that campaigned among the merchants in the district. They say, the initiative has turned out to be a success in Kannur. They have also promoted paper bags and are paying Rs 50 per kilogram. Currently, bags were being brought from units in Erode and Tirupur, said one of the merchants, a member of the Kannur Supermarket Association.
