Decline plastic bags whenever possible.

Six tips from the experts.

1. Smile and say no.

2. Body language.

Stand up straight. Shoulders back. Chest out. Standing strong and firm puts you on even eye level and creates a psychological advantage. The first one who blinks is a loser.

3. Interrupt.

Try: “I’m really sorry; I’m going to have to interrupt you. I won’t be needing a plastic bag thank you very much.”

4. Pre-empt.

“Hi there! You’re going to ask me if I want a plastic bag aren’t you? Well, it’s ok, because I don’t.”

5. Strike early.

Say it loud and say it proud. “I need to let everyone know that I don’t want to use a plastic bag. They take 500 years to biodegrade.”

6. Give your reasons.

“Plastic bags are yesterday’s news.”

“The plastic bag is dead.”

“Plastic bags make trees look messy.”

To find out more visit us at www.wearewhatwedo.org and check out the poster at http://www.wearewhatwedo.org/downloads/downloads/WAWWD-shop-wars-poster.pdf