Monterey County helps residents get ready for plastic bag ban

In less than two days, single-use plastic bags will no longer be available in parts of Monterey County.

To help shoppers prepare, the county’s environmental health bureau and other nonprofits have teamed up for local outreach programs. One of them was held at the Espinosa Market in Salinas. Representatives not only handed out free reusable bags, but took the time to clear up any confusion shoppers may have regarding the new ordinance.

“Some people don’t really have an awareness that there is the bag ban coming,” Nicole Chrislock explained, “And some people don’t know how they can start getting bags, so we are handing them out for free. Some people are already on board but for some people, getting a free bag can really help.”

These outreach programs will continue for at least another month. Click here to see upcoming events.

In the meantime, starting on March 27, if you shop in unincorporated Monterey County, you’ll have to bring a bag with you, or get ready to shell out a few cents for a paper bag. While other cities have already begun their bag ban, Salinas will start theirs on April 1.