Editor’s Note: Let’s face it, no one likes change. But ShopRite
in Jersey City did an exemplary job preparing its customers to meet the city’s new ban on the use of single-use plastic bags. They had advance signs posted for weeks throughout the store and a large countdown sign warning of yesterday’s effective day. Their employees even wore special tee shirts. A very small customer price for sturdy reusable bags also helped with the transition. Still, not all were pleased on Day 1. Our prediction: Six months from now, the hubbub will give way to ho-hum as new habits are formed. Congratulations, Jersey City and all city grocers! — FB
By Falyn Stempler | The Jersey Journal
JERSEY CITY — If city residents still haven’t weaned themselves off single-use plastic bags, too bad.
A plastic bag ban unanimously passed by the City Council a year ago went into full effect Friday and city officials marked the historic day with a kickoff event at ShopRite at 400 Marin Blvd.
The ban prohibits commercial retailers from giving customers merchandise in plastic bags as part of an effort to decrease litter and reduce environmental impact. Plastic is not biodegradable and often ends up in landfills and pollutes oceans, streets, parks and more.
“We invested dollars in it to do our part to make sure the planet is a better place than the way we found it,” said Mayor Steve Fulop, who attended the event with members of his staff. “Hopefully this paves the way for the entire state of New Jersey.”
All retailers must provide reusable and durable bags with handles and can choose to charge a nominal fee. ShopRite is charging customers 10 cents for each bag. Additionally, ShopRite has larger non-plastic bags that customers can purchase on a buy-one-get-one-free basis. Violating this municipal code could result in a minimum fine of $100.
City resident Jeff Fung said he thinks it is worth spending a few extra cents to help the environment.
“I think it’s worth it,” he said. “For the environmental protection, it’s worth it. … I don’t mind 10 cents, not too bad.”
Fulop was joined by the owners, managers, and workers of ShopRite on Friday handing out free reusable bags to some customers as part of the first-day promotion. Katherine Lawrence, director of the city Office of Sustainability, said the government hopes this ban will make residents change their behavior and bring their own bags.
Has your town implemented a plastic bag ban? Is there one in the works? Do you support or oppose the change? Let us know why–or any other thoughts you have on plastic bags–in the comment box below
