Source: The Times >> Read Full Article and Comment
Being lectured on plastic bags and the environment by The Disney Store really is the final straw
I have suffered my first fit of consumer rage at being asked to pay 5p for a carrier bag. It happened while I was buying fairy figurines in the syrupy Hades that is The Disney Store. The assistant, in a pious, sing-songy “we’re all just trying to help the environment here” voice, announced that there was now a 5p charge for bags then suggested I upgrade by spending £1.50 on a “re-usable” carrier. Lest I had failed to grasp the essence of “re-usable” she added: “I use mine all the time!”
Now hold on a minute, matey. I don’t mind doing my bit; I know that charging for bags might be the only way to cure humanity’s preposterous wastefulness. But I draw the line at being lectured on plastic overuse by a chuffing toy retailer.
Have you seen how much packaging manufacturers use to fasten one small, lightweight toy into its box? Course you have. Twisty ties, unbreakable plastic, moulded trays — all apparently essential to anchor one plastic doll into a waxed cardboard coffin. Mystifyingly, the whole thing is often then caged within a clear plastic dome as if it might attack and kill passers-by. Obviously, it is impossible to open. This is why so many parents can be found on Christmas Day weeping openly and making obscene gestures at new toys with their clawed, bleeding hands… Continue Reading
*******************************************
Parent Pages lists lots of information, advice and resources for parents with babies, children and teenagers. We list online and local organisations, so whether you are looking for something national or something on your doorstep you will find it on the Parent Pages website. You will find information on local schools, tutors, nurseries, pre-schools, childcare, childminders, days out, as well as useful information on home-educating, pregnancy, childbirth, fostering and adoption, divorce and separation, holidays. We list many local and national charities offering advice and support for children or parents with disabilities, special needs, adhd, autism and other learning difficulties.
Parent Pages doesn’t just list paying advertisers, so you get a comprehensive guide to what’s available in your local area. Search our directory using the dropdown menu.We have set the page at Dance Schools in Bromley to show you an example. CLICK to make your own selections!