EVANSTON: Dr. Marny Turvill of Healthy Green Goods on Main Street never thought to stop providing bags to customers. “We ran out of cash to buy more” she admits. After a year without bags, customers don't seem to mind. “Most people don't even react. They pick up their stuff and go.”

Evanston faces tough budgetary decisions moving into the New Year, inspiring one alderman this September to legislate a tax on disposable plastic bags. Dr. Turvill (her first career was in Pediatrics) may offer a convenient work around for any such eventual ordinance: stop offering carryout bags. Local environmental groups support the move. “Area businesses can save money and the environment”, says Michael Drennan, Outreach Chair for Citizens' Greener Evanston. The group helped sponsor a showing of the film Bag It at the Jewish Re-constructionist Congregation this October and supports an ordinance against carryout bags. He cites larger chains like Aldi's and CostCo who also forgo the convenience bags now clogging sewers and waterways nationwide. “They'll offer you a box from their vendors if you ask,” he says, there being no lack of spare boxes and bags from distributors.

Dr. Turvill provides spare boxes or bags collected from her vendors when asked. “I'm trying to work with my suppliers to cut down their unnecessary use of the bags.” However most people don't ask. “People carry stuff in the own bags or backpacks, or even their hands.” She laughs. “Some say 'I don't need a bag' before I even offer”. Should other Evanston businesses follow her lead, the city will have to look elsewhere for revenue.