News

Philadelphia FINALLY PASSED A PLASTIC BAG BAN!

City Council passed legislation, now waiting signature from Mayor Kenney

Philadelphia finally passed a plastic bag ban bill, sponsored by Councilman Mark Squilla. The bill bans plastic bags at supermarkets, convenience stores, service stations, department stores, dollar stores, clothing stores, restaurants, food trucks, farmers’ markets, dry cleaners, and delivery services.

However, a fee on paper bags was removed from the legislation. Critics have voiced concerns that removing the fee will make the bill less effective.

According to the City Council website, the bill “Prohibition on Use of Certain Bags and Checkout Bag Charge,” to permit the use of only certain bags by retail establishments at the point of sale or for a delivery; and establishing a charge, payable by the consumer to the establishment, for the provision of other types of bags; all under certain terms and conditions.”


Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Recent Posts

Rally Against Rate Hikes, Free ‘How City Council Works’ Training, Native Plants Guide & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: 25 Philly-Area Solar for Schools grants awarded. Lawmakers…

5 days ago

How to match your dollars with your values: Invest in less plastic, not fossil fuels.

Green Century has helped investors and businesses support the planet, not polluters, for over 30…

6 days ago

Can a greener Philly reduce crime?

In a bid to improve public safety, quality of life initiatives are bringing brighter lights…

7 days ago

Ride of Silence, Brownfields Cleanup, Solar in Schools, & More

Catch up on this week's sustainability news: New public orchard and gateway garden at Penn…

2 weeks ago

Sustainability with substance: How local green entrepreneurs strive for success

Consumers want authentic sustainability from suppliers. Without flashy funding or shortcuts, here's how these local…

2 weeks ago

Eco-Explainer: SEPTA is in a Funding Crisis. What’s the deadline to save it?

The transit agency may look drastically different if Harrisburg doesn’t act. Here are the key…

2 weeks ago