Alameda County first adopted its Reusable Bag Ordinance in 2012, expanded it in 2016 to cover additional store types and eating establishments, and updated it in 2026 to align with California's SB 1053 statewide plastic bag ban. The ordinance is one of the longest-running bag regulations in the state.

Why Regulate Carryout Bags?

Plastic bags are a persistent source of litter in waterways and a threat to marine ecosystems. They cannot be effectively recycled and break down into microplastics that enter the food chain, affecting both the environment and human health. Researchers project that by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish.

Before the ordinance, roughly 10,000 tons of plastic bags were sent to Alameda County landfills every year. Reducing single-use bags at the point of sale is one of the most direct steps a community can take to protect waterways, reduce litter, and conserve resources.

Results

Since implementation, the ordinance has driven measurable changes in shopping behavior across Alameda County.

80%

decline in overall bag purchases by affected retail stores

44%

decrease in plastic bags found in county storm drains

2x

increase in shoppers bringing reusable bags or not using a bag at all

Bag Purchasing Trends

Data shows a 66% reduction in total bags purchased since the program was implemented in 2012.

Average Bags per Shopping Trip

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Questions?

Email: bags@stopwaste.org | Phone: (510) 891-6575