Stores in Sheraton Mall on board with greening initiative

AS June 1 approaches, the new date set for the plastic bag deterrent fee to come into full effect, Sheraton Mall has already set the wheels in motion for consumers to embrace this initiative.

Reports are that the fee will move from the proposed 10 cents to 15 cents. And while some retailers and consumers alike have opposed such an initiative, aimed at reducing the number of plastic bags that make their way into the oceans as well as negatively affect the environment, Owner and Director of Sheraton Mall, Sharon Oran, has fully embraced the concept.

Oran recently announced that Sheraton Mall will be embarking on a year-long campaign, which will see a number of “green initiatives” launched, to raise greater awareness about the need to better protect the environment.

Stressing that Sheraton Mall’s goal as the largest shopping mall in Barbados, is to lead the way in green initiatives, Oran indicated, “All the stores at Sheraton have been recycling cardboard boxes for over six years, thanks to the services of B’s Recycling and now recently Project Recycle. But we want to do more.”

“Our dream is that one day people will no longer require plastic bags from stores, because consumers will be accustomed to bringing their own shopping bags,” Oran added.

As such, she noted that several of Sheraton’s largest retailers will be implementing a surcharge for plastic bags, starting June 1, 2017, in an effort to reduce consumer’s dependence on plastic bags.

Noting that heavy emphasis will be placed on eliminating the use of Styrofoam containers as well, Oran revealed that Jihad Georges from Fresh Spot will be converting all of his Styrofoam containers to Vegware, a healthy choice for customers and for the environment; and Italia Coffee House will be offering a 50 cents savings on coffee, when customers bring their own reusable coffee cups.

Even before the June 1 launch date, the Fresh Spot restaurant in Sheraton Mall has been boldly advertising its decision to move away from the use of plastic and Styrofoam, and it seems patrons are embracing the move. Other stores in the mall will soon come on board, as June 1 approaches. (RSM)