The conventional plastic bag is the one with the least environmental impacts.
The Frontline Defense Against Plastic Bag Bans and Taxes Nationwide
The American Progressive Bag Alliance (APBA) represents the U.S. plastic bag manufacturing and recycling industry, which employs nearly 25,000 workers in 40 states. Founded in 2005, the APBA proactively promotes product lines and leads numerous public policy initiatives that serve as the frontline defense against plastic bag bans and taxes nationwide.
With the support of the industry’s workers, the APBA promotes American-made plastic products that are the smartest, most environmentally-friendly choice at the checkout counter for both retailers and consumers.
American-made plastic bags are produced from byproducts of natural gas, not oil
Since 2005, there has been a 75% increase in plastic film recycling.
Nearly 30,000 hardworking men and women are employed and supported by the plastic bag manufacturing and recycling industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes – Plastic bags are 100% reusable and recyclable.
Canvas tote bags need to be reused at least 131 times.
Reusable bags need to be used at least 22 times.
Paper bags need to be reused at least 3 times.
Nearly 30,000 people, directly and indirectly.
No – multiple cities across the country have discovered that plastic bag bans create problems rather than solve them. When consumers are forced to use replacement bags – which are often made of thicker, heavier plastic – that contributes more to waste than the typical plastic grocery bag.
Yes – especially small businesses. Bans can increase costs, making it hard for businesses to comply.
Use our Find My Recycling Center tool to learn where you can recycle your bags.
Your plastic bags may get a new life as eco-friendly raw material for playgrounds, construction materials and new plastic bags.
No – plastic bags are reused by Americans every day. Plastic bags are also 100% recyclable.
Find a Recycling Center
Other ways to get involved:
In the News
New Jersey weighs passing toughest plastic ban in nation
“It just imposes taxes on citizens, it increases costs for businesses and ultimately doesn’t achieve the stated goal,” said Matt Seaholm, the executive director of the American Progressive Bag Alliance, which vehemently opposes the bill.
Science shows that it’s not really green to ban plastic bags
As if grocery shopping weren’t enough of a hassle, it’s about to become even more inconvenient in New York — for no good reason.
APBA opposes Memphis bag fee
“This is a tax that’s going to impact those who can least afford it. … It means an additional meal. If you’re a single mother of three, it adds up,” said Matt Seaholm, executive director of APBA.
