In an effort to save money and help the environment, the state of New York will be banning plastic bags from stores starting March 1. Plastic bags will only be used in rare exceptions. The new state law requires large retailers to take back all types of film plastic for recycling, including single-use plastic bags to any participating store for recycling.
Retailers required to collect New York State Sales tax will be prohibited to provide plastic carryout bags. Retailers covered by the new ban must also now charge a $0.05 fee on paper bags. There will be free reusable bags distributed across the city from DSNY. The bags are made from 90% recycled material and conveniently fold into a built-in pouch with a carabiner clip.
To learn more about where to find exact locations for these reusable bags and events/presentations regarding the DSNY reusable bag distribution go to www1.nyc.gov/assets/dsny/site/home.