Stroudsburg Borough Considers Ban on Single-Use Plastic Bags, Promotes Sustainable Alternatives
Stroudsburg Borough in Monroe County is considering a ban on single-use plastic carryout bags for certain businesses, aiming to reduce environmental waste and promote sustainability. Local officials are seeking residents' feedback on the potential ban, which would affect plastic bags used at the point of sale as well as for pickup or delivery orders.
Under the proposed ban, businesses would be encouraged to offer alternatives such as paper bags, including kraft paper bags, or provide reusable bags for purchase. Additionally, customers could be encouraged to bring their own reusable bags to help reduce plastic waste.
"I think it would be a positive step for the community," said Alexis Hults, a sales associate at De Novo Clothing Exchange. "If the ban doesn’t happen, it would be a bit disappointing. I like the idea of fewer littered bags in town and promoting recycling. Reusable bags, and even kraft paper bags, would be much better options for the town."
The proposed ban aligns with efforts seen across Pennsylvania and other parts of the country to limit the use of wasteful single-use plastic bags, which have a negative impact on the environment. "We currently use biodegradable, recyclable, and reusable plastic bags, but we’re open to whatever the borough decides," said Nicole Rodriguez, a server at The Cure Cafe.
Residents are invited to share their thoughts on the plastic bag ban through the borough’s survey, available on their website.
By adopting this ban, Stroudsburg could join other communities in advancing environmentally friendly practices, with options like kraft paper bags and reusable bags leading the way.
