Gelson’s Launches Plastic Bag Recycling Contest

Gelson’s Markets has launched a chain-wide series of plastic bag recycling days with a “Vote Reusable” themed plastic recycling drive, in which participating local schools have a chance to win $1,000 for bringing in the most recyclable plastic bags.

Gelson’s teamed up with True Reusable Bags to collect and remake plastic trash into new reusable bags. “We are committed to helping the communities we serve to save our planet, one plastic bag at a time,” said Yvonne Manganaro, Gelson’s director of marketing.

According to Erin Grande, environmental programs director of True Reusable Bags, the Gelson’s location in Gelson’s Village Calabasas will be the first store of the chain to encourage local students and their families to be a part of the closed-loop recycling solution.

The contest is open to elementary and middle schools in the Woodland Hills, Calabasas, Topanga, and West Hills areas. The school that brings in the most plastic by weight will be the winner of the $1,000 cash prize.

Additionally, every student that brings at least 10 single-use plastic bags for recycling will receive the “Vote Reusable” True Reusable Bag.  True Reusable Bags meet all reusability thickness and strength requirements and are designed to be re-used at least 125 times.

Gelson’s currently operates 17 Southern California locations and one location in Long Beach coming in late 2013.