Maine Lifts Reusable Bag Ban from January 15, 2021
Maine's ban on single-use plastic shopping bags, initially delayed due to the pandemic, is now set for January 15, 2021. The state has taken a significant step forward by allowing customers to use reusable bags again, following guidance from health experts.
The Natural Resources Council of Maine, a leading advocate for the ban, has been working tirelessly to educate lawmakers and consumers about the safety of reusable bags. Despite the plastic industry's disinformation campaign, which falsely portrayed reusable bags as virus carriers to boost profits, science supports their safety.
A recent health expert statement addressed the issue, confirming that plastic harbors the virus longer than paper or cloth. This finding aligns with Maine's decision to lift the temporary ban on reusable bags, following the example set by states like Vermont, Oregon, and Connecticut.
This change is a small but meaningful improvement from the previous ban, which initially included reusable bags. Maine had already made progress in reducing single-use bags, with 25 municipal ordinances in place by 2019.
With the ban on single-use plastic bags set to take effect in January, Maine continues its commitment to reducing plastic waste. By allowing reusable bags and educating the public, the state is taking a responsible approach to environmental protection, even in the face of a global pandemic.
