Nanaimo’s new checkout bag rules are coming into effect on July 1 after council unanimously gave the system final approval this week.
The implementation date was set a few months in advance to give retailers time to use up existing stock and to allow citizens time to change habits.
“The City of Nanaimo is dedicated to protecting our environment and infrastructure. We are keen to reduce the impact that single-use checkout bags have in our community and beyond,” said Coun. Ben Geselbracht, who chairs the Regional District of Nanaimo’s solid waste management select committee.
Other communities, including Victoria, have already brought in similar rules. Provincial approval is required for a municipality to adopt these kinds of regulations.
Nanaimo will be encouraging residents to use reusable bags rather than single-use plastic ones.
Initially, the cost of a paper bag in a store will be 15 cents, rising next year to 25 per cent. Reusuable bags will cost $1 this year, followed by an increase to $2 in 2022.
Some exemptions are permitted, such as small paper bags, bags for bulk foods and produce, and wrap for flowers. Paper bags must consist of at least 40 per cent post-consumer recycled content.
