How green Davids can beat Goliaths

Horrified by recent TV documentaries, and inspired by teenager Greta Thunberg’s crusade, I have launched my own tiny effort, aimed at pricking the consciences of France’s big businesses on the subject of pollution and global warming.

Having done a bit of research, I’ve started with supermarkets, pointing out the irresponsibility of continuing to pack food in expanded polystyrene, which – made from crude oil, a fossil fuel – eventually ends up in our oceans as minuscule grains that will never disappear; and black plastic, which although in theory recyclable, ends up in landfills more often than not, because it does not get picked up by electronic scanners in recycling centres.

What’s more, it contains numerous toxic ingredients, including lead, mercury and flame-retardants. A black background makes food more enticing to the eye, which is why we see pre-packed foods, including bio organic ones, presented on black plastic trays.

I realise that I have entered into a David v Goliath contest, and cannot be sure that this little David will achieve anything much.

Maybe Connexion readers would care to join in, and send a few letters to the PDGs (CEOs) of major supermarkets?

Maybe a steady stream of protest mail would grab their attention. Michel-Edouard Leclerc is a major offender. I’m sending him a letter, c/o their head office.

I’m also writing to other head offices and local branch managers. Whatever the response (or lack of), we can all choose what we do or don’t buy.

Trish Miller, Tarn

Ms Miller wins the Connexion letter of the month for June 2019 and a copy of the Connexion Puzzle Book. Please include your name and address in any correspondence; we can withhold it on request. The Editor’s decision is final. Write to: The Connexion, Patio Palace, 41 avenue Hector Otto, 98000 Monaco or email news@connexionfrance.com

Stay informed:
Sign up to our free weekly e-newsletter
Subscribe to access all our online articles and receive our printed monthly newspaper The Connexion at your home. News analysis, features and practical help for English-speakers in France