Somerville Plastic Bag Ban Effective Sep. 1

SOMERVILLE, MA – Starting September 1, single-use plastic bags will be banned throughout Somerville, per a city ordinance passed last November.

The Board of Alderman approved the ban in an effort to reduce solid waste, protect waterways and clean up the environment in Somerville.

Single-use plastic bags will no longer be available at retail checkouts, and residents are strongly encouraged to bring their own reusable bags with them when they shop. However, retailers will provide either recyclable paper bags or reusable bags at checkout, free of charge. Stores will also continue to sell durable, reusable bags and totes.

Exceptions to the ban include produce, meat and fish, frozen food and bulk food, as well as dry cleaning and newspapers.

"I commend the Board on taking the initiative to address concerns surrounding the harmful impact that single-use plastic bags have on our environment," Mayor Joseph Curtatone said in a press release. "Plastic pollution is a detriment to many, and it is crucial that we protect the City’s waterways, parks and streets to ensure that Somerville is a safe place to live now and in the future."

Ward 7 Alderman Katjana Ballantyne, chair of the Committee on Open Space, Environment and Energy, said the ban is an important step in preserving Somerville's wildlife and environment.

"Plastic bags produce litter, waste, and harmful greenhouse gas emissions," Ballantyne said. "The goal of the ordinance is to encourage businesses and shoppers alike to use more environmentally friendly options."

The ordinance will be enforced on a rolling basis; businesses with more than 10,000 square feet of floor space must comply by Sep. 1, while all other retailers have until Dec. 1 to meet the requirements. Punishment for a first-time violation will be a warning, while subsequent offenses carry a fine.

Somerville has two more drop-in information sessions to assist businesses in preparing to comply with the ordinance, as well as answer any questions. The following sessions will be held in the Aldermanic Chambers on the second floor of City Hall:

• Tuesday, Sept. 13, 10-11 a.m.

• Thursday, Sept. 29, 6-7 p.m.

Photo credit: Justin Ruckman/Flickr