Plastic bags are, in fact, the original “reusable bags” for these purposes only, and their economic production means that both retailers and consumers can transport materials for a very low price. They should be banned instead of banning polyethylene bags; solid waste represents a more serious risk than polyethylene bags. This could affect consumers, as they would then have to pay for bags that would be used to replace polyethylene bags. On the other hand, heavier plastic and paper bags consume more energy and water to be produced and transported, emitting more greenhouse gases and taking up more space in landfills.
The city will ban plastic straws and utensils, and in May the European Union joined Great Britain and announced a proposal to ban single-use plastic items, including straws. There is great discomfort among the world's environmentally concerned population in relation to the use of plastic bags. In several countries, people are even protesting in the streets and demanding a total ban on plastic shopping bags. However, the environmental problem is present, but it is not as serious as described and it is not only due to plastic bags.
