Bag Bans, Biology, and Buying

Plastic bag bans have been going into effect worldwide. It has been reported that over one trillion plastic bags are distributed to consumers annually — in supermarkets, retailers and grocers. The movement to ban plastic bags is an attempt to limit litter pollution that can clog streams, rivers and sewer systems. In areas along coastlines, bag bans have an even stronger backing because they end up in the ocean currents, harming marine species such as fish, turtles, sharks and dolphins. Plastic bags can not only be swallowed by animals, but they can also tie them up, limiting their mobility. Death is a frequent outcome.

The positive side of new policy regarding these single-use bags is that it requires consumers to alter their mindset and behavior. Planning ahead for a shopping trip by bringing reusable bags helps consumers act more intentionally. It makes people think twice about what they really need — and how much of it is necessary. In many first world nations, “throw-away” culture is prevalent because one can go shopping without much thought, spend — spend — spend, and leave with multiple plastic bags that are either tossed out or end up collecting dust in the pantry. Without limitless bags to carry goods in, people might limit their spending to the bare necessities (i.e. those they can hold with two arms).

In response to the no-plastic movement, Surfrider Foundation has compiled an on-going list of U.S. municipalities that have enacted plastic bag legislation. It provides details on what the new policies look like across the country, including in Colorado, California, New Mexico, Iowa, Maine, Hawaiʻi, Rhode Island, Alaska, Florida, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, Oregon, North Carolina, Washington, New York, District of Columbia, and Texas. Not only are these states setting precedence for other places, they are joining the force of other nations that have already moved forward sustainably. Ireland, China, Sweden, Kenya, Germany (and many more!) have found workable solutions to their plastic bag debacles.

Though the legislation to bag plastic bags is a step forward in the eyes of the environmental community, It should be noted that many retailers are finding alternative answers to handing out free, single-use plastic bags. Some view these solutions as “loopholes” in the law, but they are gaining support in the various municipalities, depending on the place and the communities they serve. Many opt to:

a) charge a fee to the consumer for each bag needed to carry their items

b) provide “reusable” and “sustainable” bags that are not considered single-use because they are thicker than those that fall within the “single-use” threshold.

c) give out “compostable” plastic bags that are thinner and degrade more quickly than the average single-use bag

In some places, distributing thicker bags is a way for stores to legally fall within the scope of the law, but many individuals feel that spirit of the law itself is overlooked. The goal for legislation with the sole purpose of banning plastic bags is to limit litter and pollution of water resources and animals. Many feel that the thicker plastic bags pose a greater risk to marine animals because theyʻre most substantial and degrade more slowly.

Given that our earthʻs resources are limited, reducing consumption of plastic, or any non-renewable resource, is a good thing in the long run. Regardless of opinions regarding bag bans, bag fees, or bag types, it is worth considering trying a new way of shopping. Take the extra time to plan out your grocery list, grab that canvas bag from the closet and be intentional about your purchases. In the end, itʻll save you some money and a maybe a tinge of guilt.