The hope is to eliminate a source of litter on the streets and microplastics in the water. But some point to studies that show people just buy more plastic bags.
Plastic traded between countries has the carbon footprint of a mid-sized European country. By 2050, it will account for 15% of the world's greenhouse gases.
With eco-friendly consumers avoiding plastic containers, green packaging is big business. But one expert says it's policy changes that will make the most difference.
The Republican-controlled legislature did not renew a statewide preemption on single-use plastics, opening the door for cities and municipalities to institute their own bans.
These local governments say lawmakers' extension of the plastic bag moratorium was 'undemocratic.' They say they have a right to find local solutions to local problems.
