On January 1 (that’s in less than four weeks!), the City of Charleston’s single-use plastic ban will take effect. The new regulations will prohibit businesses in the city from using single-use plastic items like grocery bags, straws, + carryout containers.

So, how will these new rules affect the average person?

🛒 At the grocery store, you’ll no longer see plastic bags at the checkout line. Paper bags, on the other hand, are allowed + may be available, depending on the store – but shoppers may want to consider bringing their own reusable cloth bags just in case.

🥤When dining out, don’t expect to receive plastic straws or Styrofoam to-go containers. Instead, those items must be made from material that is either recyclable or compostable. There are certain exceptions – plastic to-go lids + cutlery, for example, will still be OK.

🛍️ At retail stores, you won’t be given a plastic bag to carry your purchases out of the store. Businesses that used plastic bags before may switch to paper bags or glossy gift bags with handles, both of which are considered to be acceptable alternatives.

✅ Though this ban is commonly associated with stores + restaurants, it will actually apply to any commercial or nonprofit operation in the city, including schools, government offices, farmers markets, food trucks, and concession/event vendors.

The city is hosting two workshops this month where the public will be invited to learn more about the initiative. They’ll also be giving out free reusable bags + straws. The workshops will be held this Sunday, Dec. 8 + Wednesday, Dec. 11. Details here.

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