By Keven Drews

Hybrid vehicles are in; plastic bags are out.
Tuesday night, Tofino’s committee of the whole backed recommendations that may soon require the district to purchase recycled office-supply products and hybrid vehicles.
Committee members will also write local businesses, asking how the community can cut down on the use of non-biodegradable plastic bags.
“We all understand the general concept here,” said Coun. Derek Shaw, the author of the resolutions. “If we want to put our money where our mouth is on sustainability, this is an important issue.”
The recommendations will now go to council for approval.
Shaw said the purpose of the policies is to ensure the District of Tofino promotes ecologically and socially sustainable products, such as recycled paper. He said council should consider joining a socially sustainable purchasing network.
Whenever suitable, hybrid vehicles should replace the district’s old vehicles, he added, noting the provincial government has committed to a similar policy.
Shaw’s recommendations received the COW’s unanimous support.
Mayor John Fraser, the owner of a hybrid Ford SUV, said his gas consumption has dropped – along with his vehicle’s pollution.
“I think it’s keeping with Tofino and where we sit in a biosphere reserve,” added Coun. Michael Tilitzky.
“I think it’s a natural for our community,” said Coun. Denise Gibson of the plastic-bag proposal. “It’s just a matter of finding a way to do it.”
“Certainly, I think the community is ready for this,” added Coun. Al Anderson.