DEP helps residents reduce waste and litter by offering free reusable bags

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reminds residents to bring reusable bags when holiday shopping to help reduce waste and litter in the community. Reusable bags are not just for the grocery store — they can be used when shopping at the mall, big box stores, or all other local businesses.

Plastic bags are one of the top four litter items found in County streams. Using eco-friendly bags when doing all shopping is a way for residents to help reduce the amount of waste generated and keep our local waterways clean. The County has one of the highest waste diversion rates (the combination of recycling rate and source reduction activities) in Maryland. The ongoing recycling efforts by residents, employees and others are essential for the County to meet its ambitious recycling goal.

DEP is working with partners to distribute free reusable bags to County residents. Pick up a free reusable shopping bag at the following locations:

Reusable bags are available at the following locations:

County Public Libraries: Aspen Hill, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Damascus, Davis, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Long Branch, Little Falls, Marilyn J. Praisner, Olney, Poolesville, Potomac, Quince Orchard, Rockville Memorial, Silver Spring, Wheaton, White Oak

Department of Health and Services offices:

• Germantown, 12900 Middlebrook Road, 2nd floor
• Rockville Regional Office, 1301 Piccard Drive, 2nd floor
• Silver Spring Regional Office, 8818 Georgia Avenue, 1st floor
• TESS Community Service Center, 8513 Piney Branch Road
• Gaithersburg Neighborhood Opportunity Network, 200 Girard Street, Suite 203
• Wheaton Neighborhood Opportunity Network, 12247 Georgia Avenue

Manna Food Center: 9311 Gaither Rd. Gaithersburg, MD 20877

Each location will distribute one bag per household while supplies last. Please contact the location ahead of time to guarantee availability. For more information about the reusable bag program call Leslie Wilcox at 240-777- 7780.