sfenvironment.org

Plastic Bag Ban

In 2005, we estimated that over 180 million plastic bags were distributed in San Francisco. With no significant reduction in the number of bags nor in increase in plastic bag recycling, the City targeted the largest retail distributors of plastic check-out bags in an effort to reduce the amount used and their associated environmental impacts. To make it easier for the public, we have partnered in social marketing campaigns such as Bring Your Own Bag and distributed thousands of SFE-branded canvas bags made from scrap cloth.

Effective December 2007, large Supermarkets (over $2 million in gross annual sales receipts) and chain pharmacies were prohibited from distributing plastic checkout bags. Instead they may distribute BPI certified compostable bags, paper bags made with a minimum 40% post consumer recycled content, or reusable bags.

The intent of this legislation is to reduce the amount of single-use plastic bags consumed and disposed of in the City. While research indicates that a fee on check-out bags is the best way to achieve this goal, state laws currently prohibit cities from assessing bag fees. The Plastic Bag Reduction Ordinance is an action that we have taken until better statewide legislation is enacted.


Mayor Newsom Signs Plastic Bag Ban

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