This measure will, for the first time, require all CA grocery stores to take back and recycle plastic grocery bags. The bill also requires retailers to provide consumers with a bag reuse opportunity. Retailers and manufactures will be required to implement a public education program, and all bags must be labeled ‘Please Return to a Participating Store for Recycling.’
AB 2449 was signed by the Governor on September 30 and its provisions will go into effect July 1.
Effective July 1, 2007, AB 2449 will establish a 6 year pilot program requiring most large grocery stores and other retailers to create an in-store recycling program for the collection and recycling of plastic ‘carry out’ bags. The program will include:
- Labeling bags to return to the store for recycling.
- Placing recycling bins in visible and accessible locations for customers.
- The provision of reusable bags for customers to potentially purchase and use in lieu of disposable ones.
In addition, plastic bag manufacturers would be required to work with the grocery stores on their programs to help ensure the proper collection, transportation and recycling of the plastic bags.
SOURCE: Californians Against Waste
