"Assessing the Impact: The Effectiveness of Plastic Bag Bans in the US"
A new study has found that single-use plastic bag bans in five US states and cities have successfully reduced plastic bag consumption by about 6 billion bags per year, cutting litter by at least one-third and potentially saving marine animals from harm. The bans have encouraged the use of reusable bags and hand-carrying items, with some areas seeing significant increases in reusable bag usage. The report recommends strong bans on single-use plastic bags and closing loopholes to minimize plastic waste, while also suggesting a fee for single-use paper bags to discourage their use.