Reasoned approach to complex problem

New York, NY --- The New York League of Conservation Voters, the nonpartisan voice for New York's environmental community, today announced its support of the New York City Plastic Carryout Bag Recycling Law. The legislation was proposed by Council Speaker Christine Quinn and other members of the City Council today at City Hall.

The legislation requires that stores measuring 5,000 square feet and over establish a collection bin where consumers can drop off their plastic shopping bags for recycling. The bill calls for plastic bags to be printed with a message to encourage recycling, and requires retailers to carry reusable bags (such as canvas) that can be purchased in lieu of using plastic or paper bags.

"Plastic bags create an environmental dilemma that we cannot ignore," said Marcia Bystryn, executive director of the New York League of Conservation Voters. "We salute Speaker Christine Quinn and the City Council for taking a practical approach that will help reduce plastics in the city's waste stream, while not unfairly burdening retailers or consumers."

Each year, an estimated 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are used worldwide. The vast majority are not recycled (over 99 percent), and end up in landfills or become airborne litter that clutters our landscape and harms wildlife. The production of plastic bags consumes far less energy and water than paper bags, but plastic bags do not biodegrade. In addition, plastics bags - which are made from petroleum - consume a nonrenewable and dwindling natural resource.