Mexico City Bans Plastic Bags at Larger Retailers

A new law in Mexico City has been implemented that gives authorities in the city the power to fine commercial retailers in the city who give away plastic bags. According to the law, retailers in the city will have to charge for the plastic bags, which, according to the law, must also be biodegradable.

The law applies only to commercial establishments such as supermarkets, convenience stores, department stores and shops generally considered commercial establishments in accordance with the law, according to the legislation.

The goal of the ban is to reduce the amount of one-time use plastic bags in the city. The city notes that there are an estimated 20 million plastic bags used every day in Mexico City.

In an announcement accompanying the new legislation, Leticia Bonifaz Alonso, Mexico City’s Legal Advisor, says the main objective of the measure is to promote return to the "bag and the grocery cart" and encourage recycling and reuse of plastic bags.

The ban is part of the city’s Green Plan, which has been promoted by the Federal District Government.