County-Wide Plastic Bag Ban Only Few Days Away

On Jan. 1, Alameda County will join San Francisco, San Mateo County, San Jose and 49 other California cities and counties in no longer providing single-use plastic bags at checkout — making reusable bags a must-have for any Bay Area resident, according to the latest release by the County.

All stores selling packaged food must charge a minimum of 10 cents for each paper bag.

The County's release goes on to share tips on how to incorporate reusable bags into your holidays this year: 

• Save money and avoid the bag charge by bringing reusable bags while doing your holiday shopping. Get a head start on your New Year’s resolution!

• Give friends and family reusable bags as gifts or stocking stuffers. Stylish, eco-friendly bags can be found at Etsy.com or for as little as $5 on Amazon.

• Get in the DIY holiday spirit and craft your own reusable bag using only an old T-shirt and scissors (no sew). You can even personalize it with a favorite design or message for a loved one. See here for instructions.

For more information on Alameda County’s new ordinance, visit www.ReusableBagsAC.org.

Do you keep your reuseable bags in your car? How do you remember to bring them with you shopping? Tell us in the comments section below.