Looking to be more environmentally friendly and to encourage consumers to use reusable bags, the City of San Jose is considering adopting an ordinance that would require retail establishments charge consumers a 25 cent fee for each disposable paper or plastic bag used. Let’s say the next time you go to Zanotto’s Downtown Market and you buy a half gallon of milk, a loaf of bread, a dozen eggs, two chicken breasts, and a can of tuna. And since one of your New Year’s resolutions included eating healthier, you throw in a few bananas. You’ll probably need two or three bags to carry these groceries and maybe even need to double bag the carton of milk. Assuming you need four paper bags, you’ll be charged an extra $1.00 on top of your grocery bill for the disposable bag surcharge. That may not sound like a lot but in these difficult economic times, every dollar counts. Especially if you go grocery shopping on a regular basis. Most, if not all, retailers now offer reusable cloth or canvas carrying bags for a minimal fee.

The City of San Jose Environmental Services Department will be holding public meetings to discuss the proposed fee for paper or plastic disposable bags. You can provide your two cents on the 25 cent issue or learn more about how the fee will help reduce litter by attending one of the following public meetings. If adopted, the single-use bag fee ordinance would take effect as soon as July 1, 2009.

Public Meeting on Proposed Fee on Paper and Plastic Bags

Wednesday, January 28, 2009
2:00pm - 3:30pm
San Jose City Hall Council Chambers
200 E. Santa Clara Street
Downtown San Jose

OR

Thursday, January 29, 2009
6:00pm - 7:30pm
San Jose City Hall Council Chambers
200 E. Santa Clara Street
Downtown San Jose

For additional information on the public hearing, click here, call (408) 975-2570 or email Bring-Ur-Bag@sanjoseca.gov.