California Grocers Begin Plastic Bag Recycling Program

Starting July 1, grocers and chain drug stores in California will provide opportunities for consumers to return clean plastic carryout bags to the stores providing them.

The new program follows a state law passed last that required grocery stores and other retailers to implement recycling programs for plastic bags. The law, AB 2449, was sponsored by Rep. Levin, D-Van Nuys.

Additionally, stores will provide reusable bags for sale to customers.

The California Grocers Association said that members of the association recycled more than 2.2 billion pounds of material, including plastic, in 2005.