In addition, the task force said it is difficult to educate consumes regarding the recyclability if single-use-plastic bags. As a result, consumers often dispose it as a waste or become a litter. In New York City alone, single-use plastic bags account for 1,700 tons of residential garbage per week. It is costing the city $12.5 million a year to dispose it.
Gov. Cuomo decided to ban single-use plastic bags based on the recommendations of the task force. The ban will take effect on January 1, 2019.
Gov Cuomo says we need to protect our environment
In a statement, the governor said, “The blight of plastic bags takes a devastating toll on our streets, our water and our natural resources, and we need to take action to protect our environment.”
In addition, Gov. Cuomo said, “As the old proverb goes: ‘We did not inherit the earth, we are merely borrowing it from our children,’ and with this action we are helping to leave a stronger, cleaner and greener New York for all.”
Under the program bill, the state will also increase consumer awareness regarding the harmful effect of single-use plastic bags through education and outreach campaigns.
