Plastic Bag Bans: Can Philly Catch On?

Italy decided to start the new year off right by completely banning plastic bags in the country.

Italians were using 20 BILLION bags per year – more than 330 per person, and was about 1/5 of the bags used in Europe. However, starting January 1st, retailers were required to distribute biodegradable plastic, cloth or paper bags instead.  Italy joins the ranks of Mexico City & San Fran to implement a complete plastic bag ban, which Philadelphia failed to pass in June 2009. (However, retailers with Philly locations like IKEA & Whole Foods have banned plastic bags internally.)

Other cities have imposed taxes on plastic bags: Trendsetter Ireland implemented a 15 euro cents (.20 US) tax on plastic in 2002, cutting 90% of bag usage within 1 week.  Neighbor Washington DC charges a nickel for each bag you use, implemented last year.

Plastic bags are detrimental to the environment, harm wildlife & pollute our city. Readers, what are you doing to avoid using plastic bags?  Do you think the city can implement a plastic bag ban in the near future?

Posted by Julie

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher