A recent study by Anna Papp (Columbia University) and Kimberly L. Oremus (University of Delaware) provides further evidence that plastic bag bans and fees are effective policy tools, slashing plastic bag litter by up to nearly half. By analyzing 45,000+ shoreline cleanups across the U.S. (2016–2023) and 600+ local and state bag regulations, researchers found these measures reduce plastic bag litter by 25–47% compared to areas without such policies.
The Surfrider Foundation has helped pass many of the approximately 600 local and statewide plastic bag laws adopted to date. Plastic bag laws help reduce plastic pollution by promoting positive behavior change (ex. going bag-free or using reusable bags) and reducing the number of single-use plastic and paper bags at the source. Bag bans can also help promote environmental justice when done thoughtfully.
Every single-use plastic bag ban developed and implemented is an opportunity to create stronger and more inclusive policies that benefit all communities and the environment.
CA Senator Blakespear at a press conference to strengthen the statewide bag ban (San Diego Surfrider Chapter)
The research findings make clear that plastic bag policies have been broadly effective in limiting—but not eliminating—shoreline plastic bag debris in jurisdictions where it was previously prevalent. There is also suggestive evidence that fees may have a greater impact than bans, especially partial bans, although further research is needed to understand why. This also aligns with what Surfrider’s recommends when advocating for bag bans.
While product bans aren’t a complete solution, they are a crucial step toward cleaner beaches and healthier marine ecosystems. As plastic pollution rises globally, these policies offer a real, scalable win—and a blueprint for broader action. Ultimately, reducing waste at the source is the only real solution to decreasing the harms caused by bags and other single-use plastics throughout their lifecycle.
Bill Hickman, Central California Region Senior Manager, raising awareness about reusable bags