EVERETT, WA – The City of Everett has launched a “Bring Your Bag Everett” outreach campaign in preparation for the City’s new reusable bag ordinance. The ordinance goes into effect Sept. 30, 2019, and prohibits retailers from distributing single-use plastic bags, with a few exceptions, to protect public health and safety.
As part of the “Bring Your Bag” campaign, the City is offering free reusable bags to residents who pledge to decrease their use of plastic. The bags are available while supplies last at the City’s utility billing counter, 3101 Cedar Street.
“The pledge to use less plastic is an important part of our outreach, as it represents a commitment to changing behavior,” said Erika Frost, public information & education specialist. “It’s an opportunity to consider the impact that each one of us has on the environment and think about the small things we can do differently.”
Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags, but businesses can offer large paper bags and/or thick reusable plastic bags at a 5 cent (minimum) fee. Small paper and plastic bags used to protect items (i.e., produce, flowers, bakery items) will still be allowed.
The “Bring Your Bag” campaign also includes a K-8 student art contest with the theme: “Bring Your Bag, Protect Our Environment” that runs through Aug. 30, 2019. Information is available at everettwa.gov/ArtContest.
The reusable bag ordinance was approved by the Everett City Council on Dec. 5, 2018, and is intended to reduce waste and protect the environment. More information on the ordinance and outreach campaign can be found at everettwa.gov/BringYourBag.
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