FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  Sharisse Kenney
Student Intern
Orange County Environmental Protection Division
(407) 836–1440, orangetogreen@ocfl.net
Web site: www.ocfl.net/epd

Orange County, FL – Orange County Environmental Protection Division (EPD) is asking residents to Take Your Own Tote (T.Y.OT.) on Earth Day 2009, Wednesday, April 22nd, and leave the paper and plastic bags at the store. This countywide effort will demonstrate the ease and benefits of reusable bags, while educating the public on the negative environmental impacts of single use bags.   
 
According to national statistics, the excessive use and disposal of plastic and paper bags adds up to enormous ecological consequences. The average U.S. citizen uses up to 500 bags a year; that is almost 22,000 bags in a lifetime.  If an individual simply cuts that use in half, the effect will greatly reduce the negative impacts of single-use bags; imagine what an entire community can do! 
 
"Even though recycling paper and plastic bags is good, there is an easier and more effective way to handle this waste issue. Don't use them at all, T.Y.O.T!" says EPD spokesperson Nancy Rodlun.
  
The campaign plans to pull together all facets of the Orange County community from its citizens, to retail stores and libraries, to nonprofits and civic organizations.  Local students from the University of Central Florida and Rollins College are already involved.  Rodlun adds, "By supporting such a simple, yet effective effort, this grassroots initiative will surely be a model for other communities."
 
The T. Y. O. T. Earth Day campaign will include pledge stations set up across the county at public buildings and college campuses prior to April 22nd (dates and locations TBA).  Residents can pledge to help reduce single use waste and receive tools to participate on Earth Day. 
 
For more information and to find out how you, your business, or an organization can participate, contact the Orange County Environmental Protection Division at 407–836–1400 or orangetogreen@ocfl.net. 

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