Cronig's offers paper bags for a number of reasons, but chiefly because they are the preferred method for carrying groceries. Their roomy and boxy shape holds more groceries than soft-sided plastic, and the flat rectangular bottom prevents items from shifting about and falling out when the bag is set down. Since handles are the primary reason customers might choose plastic over paper, Cronig's offers paper bags with the addition of sturdy handles.

As most of us can attest, these bags lead many lives once they are emptied out at home. Because they are so sturdy and biodegradable, they are the bag of choice at any town landfill paper recycling center on the Island. They often line our kitchen waste baskets, and their kraft paper is rugged enough to wrap any package for postal delivery. Some folks save them and return 50 at a time, receiving a canvas tote bag for their efforts.

This last endeavor may be the most environmentally responsible option for paper bag users because reuse is far more efficient than recycling. Any bags that are clean (this means no watermarks too), and not torn, are eligible to be returned to either store for the checkout clerks to fill again. If collecting a canvas tote bag is not your motive, Cronig's will accept the return of fewer than 50 bags at a time. On average the stores accept the return of 500 to 800 bags a week which helps to offset the 1600 bags off season, and 4000 bags on season used weekly.

Environmentally, the paper versus plastic controversy rages on, and the more obvious statistics shift remarkably depending on which proponent is quoted. However, the facts for the real environmental price of monoculture pulpwood farms, oil spills, waste management of production byproducts, or the hidden costs of freight are not to be found in these pro and con statistics.

Therefore, the most conscientious way to tote groceries home is to regularly use a small stash of reusable bags. Don't dismiss this practice out of hand; it is easier than it may first appear. This trick is to remember to get the bags back into the car before the next trip to the store. I tuck mine in the pocket on the driver's door of my car so it is an automatic reflex to grab them before I head into the store. Once you get the hang of it, the process is effortless, and the eliminated clutter of mounting bags is just the first perk of making the switch.