As we continue to monitor New York’s updates on their bag ban regulations, it’s also important for companies and retailers alike to stay updated with the changes as well. Last year, Governor Cuomo signed a bill into legislation that bans the sale of single use plastic bags in New York. This state-wide ban was to take effect in March of 2020. Even though the bag ban is legally in effect, it has not yet been enforced due to the coronavirus pandemic and ongoing lawsuit between the state department of environmental conservation and plastic bag industry.
As recent as Thursday, September 24th, the department of conservation won their current lawsuit brought by the plastic bag industry. As a result, the bag ban law will indefinitely be put into effect banning the use of plastic bags in grocery stores and retailers. Although, there will be some exceptions. This law will allow some plastic bags to still be used; such as smaller size bags for carrying bulk items like produce, nuts or deli meat. Trash and garment as well as restaurant take out bags are also exceptions.
Along with the ban, there will also be a 5-cent charge per plastic bag in New York’s cities and counties. Depending on the borough or county, retailers can charge 5 cents for the use of paper bags. If they do, 2 cents are kept for each bag to put towards a program for reusable bag distribution. The remaining 3 cents will go to New York’s Environmental Protection Fund. There are great alternatives to plastic bags. This is great to keep in mind once the ban goes into full enforcement.
NY Bag Ban: Making The Switch
Since there are current bag ban laws in effect across the country, making the switch from plastic to reusable is quite simple. The environmental impact, cost effectiveness and durability of reusable shopping bags offer incredible benefits to the end user.
The key in creating reusable shopping bags is to first focus on usability and design. From construction materials, pockets and inserts to common handles, these are all decisions which should be made based on how customers use their reusable shopping bags. Some materials to think about are pp woven, pp non-woven, cotton, jute and RPET.
Just like plastic bags, reusable shopping bags are completely customizable. From printing and treatments to construction – reusable bags are the perfect alternative. For example, reusable shopping bags can range from a foldable tote bag to a large Ikea style shopper. Both constructions, and everything in between can fit a wide range of products from apparel to groceries. The convenient constructions can fold up for easy storage and carry while not in use. Put the finishing touches on your reusable shopping bag by adding custom printing, embossing, or lamination. Custom branding is perfect for your company as these bags act as mobile billboards.
If your company is looking for an eco-friendly alternative, look no further than a reusable shopping bag. Eco-friendly shopping bags like these can be used to stay in compliance with new and ever-changing bag ban laws.
