Alaska City Takes Next Big Step to Enact Ban on Plastic Bags

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The ordinance to ban plastic bags, if approved by the Unalaska City Council, may come into effect on New Year’s Day.

The Council had witnessed strong public support to the proposed ordinance. While almost a dozen of residents spoke in support of the ban, there was not even a single voice in opposition. The council also discussed the possibility of extending the ban from plastic bags to other plastic consumable items including plastic drinking straws. The proposal is scheduled to appear on the Council agenda this week.

Earlier in April this year, the Council had authorized the City Manager to develop an ordinance that will ultimately ban disposable bags at grocery stores. The proposed ordinance, aimed at reducing plastic litter and protecting marine life, was finally formulated after detailed consultations with all related parties including local stores.

ALSO READ: Council Unanimously Approves Plastic Bag Ban Ordinance

The ordinance would impose outright ban on sales of plastic bags at checkout points, starting Jan 1, 2019. The violators of the law will be guilty of offence and shall be subject to a penalty of $100 per violation.

The ban will be applicable to all plastic shopping bags having thickness of less than 4 mm, including those labeled as compostable or biodegradable. However, it will not be applicable to plastic bags used for fresh produce, fruits and vegetables. Garbage, pharmacy, sandwich and bread bags are also exempted from the ban. The ban will not cover bags used for small hardware items such as washers and bolts.

Amidst strong support from environmentalists and residents, there are concerns that the proposed ban on plastic bags may make groceries more expensive, as retailers are likely to pass on a share of additional costs to customers. Store managers predict that the ban may lead to suffering of the community.

Earlier in 2013, the Unalaska City Council had made a vain attempt to impose ban on plastic bags.