Do bag bans really work?

Yes. The results speak for themselves. Jurisdictions that have instituted similar bans have seen significant changes in the amount of bags used and the problems they cause.


One year after LA County implemented its bag ban, there was a 95% reduction in the distribution of all single-use bags, including a 30% reduction in paper bags. San Jose has seen an 89% reduction of plastic bag litter in storm drains, a 60% reduction in creeks, and a 59% reduction in city streets.

Show All Answers

1. What is the City of Napa’s definition of a single-use plastic bag?
2. Isn’t there a law that requires me to put alcoholic beverages into a carryout bag?
3. What other communities regulate plastic bags?
4. What damage do plastic bags cause?
5. What about recycling? Isn’t that a better solution?
6. How will I carry my groceries home? I need those free bags.
7. What is the benefit to me? What is the benefit to the community?
8. Why is there a 10-cent fee on recycled paper carryout bags? Is it a tax?
9. What types of retail establishments are required to charge 10 cents for each recycled paper bag?
10. I use plastic bags to pick up my pet’s waste. What will I use instead?
11. Do bag bans really work?