The legislation will require store operators to provide an easily accessible collection bin for plastic bags in visible locations. In addition, the stores will be required to use plastic bags that display the words "Please return this bag to a participating store for recycling" or a similar message as well as make reusable bags available for purchase. The stores will also be required to submit annual reports to the Department of Sanitation on the amount and weight of collected plastic bags.
"Plastic bags all too often end up littering our city's streets, and polluting our soil and water," Speaker Christine Quinn asid. "New Yorkers want to be environmentally responsible, and we need to give them a chance to reduce the number of plastic bags they use, and recycle the ones they already have. This legislation will create convenient opportunities for bags to be recycled, in a way that's friendly to both local businesses and to the environment."
"This bill mandates a simple, easily instituted plan that strikes a balance between convenience and conscience," Councilman Peter Vallone said. "With everyone's help, we can help reduce a major form of waste and make our city a more environmentally friendly place."
Americans use an estimated 84 billion plastic bags annually, approximately one billion of them right here in New York City. The production of plastic bags worldwide uses over 12 million barrels of oil per year, causing other negative environmental impacts.
