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Real Change Starts Here
Every year over 300 million plastic bags become waste in Cuyahoga County alone. These plastic bags can take decades to decompose, and when they do, they leach harmful chemicals into our ecosystems and waterways. Although plastic bags have become an everyday part of life, used to carry groceries and other purchased goods, our communities being clean and safe should be a priority. Our goal is to educate our fellow Northeast Ohians on the issue as well as provide practical solutions that they can implement. We also aim to provide volunteer opportunities for those who wish to take a hands-on approach in cleaning up our communities. Join us in creating a better tomorrow for Northeast Ohio.​
Our Story
Growing up in suburban Northeast Ohio, North Royalton High School juniors Milin Mathur and Mehar Kandola were accustomed to seeing plastic bags everywhere. While working on a project together, they discovered the significant impact plastic bag waste was having on their local communities, which prompted them to look deeper into the issue and explore potential solutions. Milin recalled how his mom would always take their used plastic bags to a recycling container outside their local grocery store, but he was shocked to learn how many students at his school were didn't recycling their plastic bags or weren't even aware recycling was an option. Determined to raise awareness and address this problem, the two founded Bag Better Northeast Ohio, a student-led initiative focused on tackling plastic bag waste and protecting the region’s lakes, waterways, ecosystems, and neighborhoods. While they recognize the challenges ahead, Milin and Mehar are confident that with effective community outreach and involvement, they can make a meaningful difference.