Bag ban to start this week

Vermont’s single-use plastic-bag ban, aiming to keep plastic pollution out of the environment, takes effect this week. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont’s ban on single-use plastic bags takes effect on Wednesday, though some states, like Maine and New Hampshire, have postponed theirs amid the pandemic. 

The postponements stem from a fear that reusable bags could be vectors for the coronavirus, though officials in Vermont did not agree. The state says reusable bags can be used safely and are not any more of a risk than other surfaces customers and employees come in contact with, according to a recent report from the Associated Press. 

It appears the ban, passed by Vermont lawmakers in 2019, will have the first desired effect: cutting back on some plastic pollution. The new law prohibits grocers, retailers and restaurants from providing plastic bags. It makes exceptions for plastic bags used for dry cleaning, flowers, packaging loose produce and other food items inside stores.

Much of the focus when this bill first hit the Vermont Legislature centered on grocery stores. But the ban may not cause the hoped-for surge in reusable bags, amid the current trepidation around them. In addition, some stores ask customers to refrain from bringing their own bags during the pandemic. One good thing: Many businesses that have opened to in-store traffic still offer curbside service, as a way for people to still get their food if they feel safer remaining outside. With that, the ban won’t change many things amid the current situation. The long term impact will be the aspect to watch. 

— Gareth Henderson