France: Plastic bag ban takes effect

Shops including convenience stores in France are now prohibited from distributing plastic shopping bags as the law banning it came into effect July 1, according to France24. The measure underscores the country’s commitment to the environment.

The ban, which was passed as part of the 2015 energy bill, also prohibits stores from charging customers for the bag.

Plastic bags for produce will also be prohibited come January 2017.

The only bags that will be allowed by the law are those thicker than 50 micrometers on the condition that they are reusable and the “bio-sourced” bags, which are made of plastic and cornstarch or potato starch, and decomposed in water and in carbon dioxide.

Bio-sourced bags are more expensive but according to Environment Minister Ségolène Royal “the development of these new bio-sourced plastics will create 3,000 jobs in France."

17 billion plastic bags are used in France every year, which can pose serious threats to marine animals and endanger human life, stressed Francis Vallat, president of the environmental group Expédition 7e Continent.