Plastic Bag Bans Gain Momentum: Effective Policies Reduce Coastal Litter by Nearly 50%
December 23, 2025 – A groundbreaking study published in Science confirms that plastic bag bans and fees have significantly reduced plastic pollution in coastal areas. Researchers from the University of Delaware and Columbia University analyzed data from shoreline cleanups across the U.S. and found that jurisdictions with plastic bag policies saw a 25%-47% decrease in plastic bag litter compared to areas without regulations. The study highlights the long-term effectiveness of these measures, with no evidence of rebound effects over time.
Key Findings:
Bans vs. Fees: While bans are more common, fees (e.g., charging for bags) may be even more effective in reducing consumption.
Environmental Impact: Plastic bags, which often end up in oceans, pose severe threats to marine life, entangling animals and breaking down into harmful microplastics.
Global Context: Over 100 countries have implemented similar policies, aligning with the UN’s 2024 call for a treaty to “end plastic pollution.”
Beyond Bags: The Bigger Picture
The study also underscores the need for broader actions against single-use plastics. The U.S. and other nations are expanding regulations to include items like straws, utensils, and food containers, which contribute to the 14 million tons of plastic entering oceans annually.
What This Means for Businesses
Compliance: Companies must adapt to local policies, such as the EU’s ban on certain single-use plastics or U.S. state-level laws.
Innovation: The shift toward reusable alternatives (e.g., cotton or paper bags) is accelerating, though experts caution that these must be used repeatedly to offset higher production emissions.
Consumer Awareness: Public campaigns are critical to reinforce behavior change, as seen in regions where fees led to a 70% drop in bag usage.
Looking Ahead
As plastic pollution disrupts climate and biodiversity systems, the study’s findings provide a roadmap for policymakers. The next frontier? Extending regulations to other disposable plastics and fostering circular economy models.