LAWS REQUIRING MANDATORY BIODEGRADEABLE SHOPPING BAGS

LAWS REQUIRING MANDATORY BIODEGRADEABLE SHOPPING BAGS Gone are the days when shoppers were asked whether they preferred plastic or paper shopping bags at grocery stores. Today, many local government units (LGUs) have already mandated the exclusive use of paper shopping bags, banning plastic ones through local ordinances. This move aims to reduce plastic waste, promote sustainability, and encourage businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices. While the use of mandatory paper bags is a well-intended environmental initiative, many shoppers have voiced concerns about their durability. Paper bags often fail to hold wet or frozen goods, and they can easily break when carrying heavier items like canned goods. These inconveniences have led to some dissatisfaction among consumers, who feel that the shift to paper bags comes at the cost of practicality. One possible solution to this issue is for shoppers to bring their own reusable shopping bags made from stronger, eco-friendly materials. The good news is that technology has now made it possible to produce bags that are not only stronger than both paper and plastic but are also organic and biodegradable. These new-generation shopping bags are crafted from natural fibers such as banana or abaca, which are known for their durability and sustainability. Additionally, even standard paper bags can be reinforced with banana or abaca fibers, making them more resilient while still being biodegradable. If LGUs adopt these improved alternatives, shoppers may no longer face issues with fragile paper bags. Although LGUs have the power to enforce environmental policies, it is always beneficial to ensure these regulations are consumer friendly. The transition to sustainable alternatives should not create unnecessary difficulties for the public. As the saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention. If plastic shopping bags are completely phased out, both businesses and consumers will naturally innovate and seek better, eco-friendly alternatives. Besides banana and abaca fibers, other natural materials such as coconut leaves, nipa palm leaves, and bamboo strips could also be explored for bag production. The Philippines already has several national laws promoting biodegradable shopping bags. Now, it is up to the LGUs to enact ordinances that complement these national efforts. Retailers that genuinely care about the environment should not wait for a legal mandate to switch to biodegradable materials. Similarly, environmentally conscious consumers should actively support the banning of plastic shopping bags as part of their contribution to preserving nature. Countries around the world have already implemented laws requiring businesses to use paper or biodegradable bags in place of plastic. Cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and New York have led the way in the United States, while states like California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Vermont have also enacted strict bans. Beyond the U.S., countries like Ireland, Australia, and Kenya have successfully implemented nationwide bans on plastic bags, proving that large-scale transitions are both possible and effective. By embracing these global best practices, the Philippines can further enhance its environmental policies. If more LGUs take proactive steps, and if businesses and consumers alike commit to sustainable choices, the transition to mandatory biodegradable shopping bags can be a smooth and beneficial one for all. The fight against plastic waste requires collective effort, but with innovation and commitment, we can make a real impact on our planet. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 03-26-2025