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.
There are nearly 30,000 grocery stores and retailers across the U.S. with in-store drop-off points where shoppers can return their 100 percent recyclable plastic bags.
Standard reusable cotton grocery bags must be reused 131 times "to ensure that they have lower global warming potential than" a plastic bag used only once.
Once disposed, reusable bags take up to 9.3% more space than plastic bags in landfills.
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
Plastic bag bans gain steam in liberal states
Matt Seaholm, executive director of the American Progressive Bag Alliance, was interviewed about plastic bag bans gaining steam across the country.
Statement from the Manufacturers and Recyclers of Plastic Retail Bags regarding New York Budget Provisions on Carryout Bags
Matt Seaholm, executive director of the American Progressive Bag Alliance, released the following statement regarding New York Budget Provisions on Carryout Bags
New Jersey and Hawaii propose the toughest legislative bans on plastic in the country
Matt Seaholm, executive director of the American Progressive Bag Alliance, discusses plastic legislation in New Jersey and Hawaii.
