Montclair Edges Closer to Plastic Bag Ban

Montclair Edges Closer to Plastic Bag BanMontclair Edges Closer to Plastic Bag Ban The township of Montclair, New Jersey, is poised to implement a ban on single-use plastic bags, taking a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental sustainability. On Monday, the Montclair Township Council approved a second reading of an ordinance that would prohibit the distribution of single-use plastic carryout bags at all retail establishments within the town. The ordinance is expected to be formally adopted at the council’s next meeting. According to the ordinance, retail stores would be barred from providing customers with plastic bags thinner than 2.25 mils. Reusable bags made of cloth, paper, or other durable materials would still be permitted. The move comes as part of a growing trend towards reducing plastic bag use around the country. Last year, New Jersey became the second state in the nation to enact a statewide plastic bag ban. Montclair would be the first municipality in the county to adopt its own local ban. Supporters of the ordinance argue that it will significantly reduce the amount of plastic litter that ends up in landfills, waterways, and public spaces. Plastic bags have a long lifespan and can take hundreds of years to decompose, posing a threat to wildlife and marine life. Opponents of the ban have expressed concerns about the potential impact on businesses and the cost of providing reusable bags. However, the ordinance includes a provision that allows businesses to sell reusable bags for a reasonable fee. Mayor Sean Spiller praised the council’s decision to move forward with the ban. “This is a commonsense measure that will make a real difference in our community,” he said. “It sends a clear message that Montclair is committed to protecting our environment and reducing our reliance on single-use plastics.” The ordinance is expected to go into effect later this year. If adopted, Montclair would join a growing list of municipalities nationwide that have implemented plastic bag bans.