Greenock will also be showcasing its own reusable shopping bags, which were introduced in September, and is currently working on the design and production of a reusable bottle. Greenrock president Erin Moran said: “I think people are starting to think about sustainability more but there’s a lot of work to be done. It’s about changing mindsets on all levels – not just shoppers but the stores and cashiers and packers – so that Bermuda continues to be a beautiful place.” She added: “We’re hoping to produce a ripple effect. When I first moved into my house I was the only one who used to put out a blue bag on Thursday but now three or four other people in the street do it. If we can get that happening on a larger scale it will make a huge difference.”

Ms Moran said a number of countries were already operating successful schemes that promoted the recycling and reuse of products.  In Sweden, for example, shoppers take reusable bins to the supermarket instead of bags while the Republic of Ireland introduced a tax on plastic carrier bags. She said said: “Initiatives like this show what can be done and there’s no reason why we can’t do it in Bermuda. We could be a leader in this.”

End-to-End, which is Bermuda’s largest annual charity fundraising event, chose Greenrock to receive the grant because of the synergy between the two organizations. "As a group that actively encourages thousands of people to use the trails, roadways and waterways of Bermuda for our event, we are keenly aware of the importance of our island's environment and the issues surrounding it,” said End-to-End Chairman Anne Mello. "We know the participants in the End-to-End event appreciate every opportunity to be in Bermuda's natural surroundings, and we believe that supporting Greenrock is the most fitting way to mark our 20th anniversary given their commitment to sustainable development initiatives on the island.”

For more information about Greenrock or to obtain a reusable bag visit www.greenrock.org. The 2008 Bermuda End-to-End will take place on Saturday, May 3. Charities interested in applying for 2008 Bermuda End-to-End funds should submit an application form to the organisation by Wednesday, November 14, 2007.

To download a form and for more information, please visit www.bermudaendtoend.bm , email ete at logic.bm or call the Bermuda End-to-End hotline at 292-6992.