Global Trends in Plastic Bag Regulations – 91 Countries and Territories on Full or Partial Ban

Across the globe, 91 countries and territories have implemented full or partial bans on plastic bags. Africa has been particularly proactive in this area, while Europe predominantly opts for charging fees or taxes to curb plastic bag usage. However, the trend in Europe is shifting towards bans, especially for smaller and thinner bags that are more likely to pollute the environment and less likely to be reused.

Developing nations often prefer outright bans on specific types of plastic bags due to significant issues with plastic waste management. Africa, lacking a powerful lobby of plastic producers, has led the charge in banning plastic bags. Noteworthy exceptions include France, Italy, and Germany (starting in 2022), which have prohibited certain thin plastic bags, replacing them with compostable alternatives.

In 2021 and 2022, the European Union introduced bans on single-use plastic items such as stirrers, straws, plates, and cutlery, but polymer bags were not included in this directive. Some EU member states have independently banned lightweight plastic bags (15 to 50 micrometers thick). A new EU regulation passed in March aims to ban very thin bags (under 15 micrometers) often used for loose produce, as well as mini toiletries, condiment pouches, and suitcase shrink-wrap.

The extent and enforcement of plastic bag bans vary globally. Some countries have banned all non-compostable plastic bags, while others allow more durable, reusable bags for a fee. Additional measures may include restrictions on the production or import of plastic bags or various taxation forms.

China banned thin plastic bags in 2008 and introduced fees for sturdier ones, expanding to a full ban on non-compostable bags in major cities by the end of 2020 and nationwide by 2022. Markets will comply by 2025. India, after delaying an initial ban due to the Covid-19 pandemic, implemented a ban on several single-use plastic items, including flimsy bags, in 2022.

The United States does not have a nationwide ban or fee for plastic bags, though several states, including California, Oregon, Washington, New York, and Colorado, have enacted such laws. Many cities and towns have also banned plastic bags, often pairing the ban with a fee for paper bags. In Australia, all states have now implemented some form of plastic bag ban.

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