Saint John has passed the first two readings of a bylaw that would prevent retailers from handing out single-use plastic bags at checkouts.
Council will still need to pass the third reading to enact the bylaw, which would go into effect July 1.
“This is a great project that all the regions, especially all the communities in the Fundy region, are working on together, so it’s a step in the right direction,” said Deputy Mayor Shirley McAlary at Monday evening’s meeting.
The Fundy Regional Service Commission requested that all municipalities in the Saint John region enact a ban.
Quispamsis and Grand Bay-Westfield were the first two communities to do so. Rothesay is in the process of passing a similar ban.
The commission says the market for single-use plastic has dried up, meaning an estimated 35 million bags head to the landfill in the Fundy region annually.
Retailers are being notified, and the city has directed communications staff to continue to spread the message.
Councillor David Hickey tabled a motion requesting a ban last fall. He believes progressive policy-making like this improves the city’s liveability.
“Bylaws like these play a big part in our growth agenda,” said Hickey. “They increase our attractiveness as a city that cares about our climate impact, that makes sure community conversations are becoming realities in our city, and I think that’s extremely positive for us.”
Council will consider the third reading of the bylaw at its next meeting on March 22.
