The City of Wetaskiwin will resume enforcement of Plastic Bag Ban Bylaw 1912-18 starting May 5, 2021.
Enforcement of the bylaw was originally suspended in March 2020 by the Director of Emergency Management due to COVID-19 concerns that reusable bags were a potential source of transmission for the virus.
Coronavirus transmission routes are better understood now and reusable bags are no longer considered as playing a role in the spread of COVID-19.
“The decision to suspend enforcement of the plastic bag ban bylaw in March 2020 was made in the interest of protecting the public’s health,” said City Manager Sue Howard. “Now that we know reusable bags are not linked to the transmission of COVID-19, we are resuming enforcement of this bylaw.”
The city says it recognizes the environmental harm caused by plastic bag pollution and remains committed to its sustainability efforts by reintroducing the bylaw. City staff are reaching out to the local business community to ensure they are aware of the upcoming resumption of enforcement and to answer any questions business owners may have.
Starting May 5, Wetaskiwin residents and shoppers are encouraged to bring their reusable bags when shopping in any retail store in the City of Wetaskiwin. The city is also reminding the public about the importance of regularly washing or disinfecting their reusable bags to ensure their cleanliness when transporting food items.
shaela.dansereau@pipestoneflyer.ca
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