Add one more unexpected consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic to the list: some states, cities, and stores are temporarily reversing or delaying their bans on single-use plastic bags during the crisis. The fear is that as re-usable bags make their way from stores to customer homes and back again, baggers and others who come into contact with the bags might pick-up the virus. Not everyone agrees. In June 2020, in an effort spearheaded by Greenpeace, a letter signed by more than 115 experts defended the safety of reusable bags as long as they’re cleaned between uses. All of Belvedere Exclusive’s bags are 100% machine- or hand-washable and can be washed after every use by following the instructions printed on every bag. The letter also stated that, whether using plastic or reusable bags, it would be safer to have customers handle and bag their own groceries during the pandemic. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many states and municipalities that had already prohibited or were planning to prohibit single-use plastic bags have temporarily reversed those bans. In mid-July, a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Economic Development announced the state was lifting restrictions on reusable bags and reinstating single-use bag bans and fees, effective immediately. Likewise, a number of municipalities in California’s Bay Area and the Los Angeles area that had paused restrictions on single use plastic bags for several months are now welcoming reusable bags back into stores. But there’s one catch, reports The Mercury News, “If you bring your own bags, you have to load your own groceries at the check stand, the local ordinances say.” Clearly, the trend to welcome reusable bags back into stores and reinstate single-use bag bans is good news for the environment and for reducing waste. It’s also good news for customers of Belvedere Exclusive. We are proud to be your premier source for environmentally-friendly reusable tote bags, insulated cooler bags, canvas tote bags, and other related products. We invite you to get a no-strings attached quote on our branded bags, which are already in use with many high-profile retailers around the country. All Belvedere products are recycled, recyclable, or biodegradable/compostable.Temporary Rollbacks
A Fluid Situation
Trending Positive