The city of Santa Cruz, California is considering banning plastic bags.  They are inspired by their neighbor cities and want to see if they can pass similar restrictions in their city.  This is what we at ConservingNow have been talking about when we say, "Together We Can Make a Difference".  It means taking cues from one another, listening, watching and seeing what wor

Its not just cities that are trying to rid themselves of plastic bags.  States are trying as well.  Recently, a state senator from Oregon proposed legislation banning plastic bags statewide.

Facing anti-plastic bag legislation nationwide, many stores have taken the initiative to reduce their plastic bag consumption voluntarily.  Publix grocery store is one such retailer.  Here is summary of many of the changes they have been making:

The News Herald reported last week on an environmental study about plastic bags in Florida.  Sure, there isn't much new in the report - and by that I mean there isn't much we don't already know about the dangers and pollution of plastic bags.  But there are some excerpts that are worth reposting here.

ConservingNow.com is pleased to see that these Central Coast government officials are taking the lead to not only rid the environment of a major source of litter and waste, but are also dedicated to clean up of the plastic mess on the shores of the Pacific Ocean.  It is clear from this article that the officials at the meeting are taking the issue very seriously and are determined to do wh

“When it comes to plastic bag bans, Edmonds sings its own tune.  After all, it was the first Washington city to approve a ban of plastic checkout bags from all retail stores just last month.

This article from Bloomberg.com is just one more example of how and why banning plastic bags is good for the environment.  The article notes that China’s ban on plastic bags has reduced their oil consumption by 3 million metric tons of oil per year.  

It is always inspiring to see smaller towns and cities take the lead in reducing plastic bag consumption.  The Colorado Association of Ski Towns is a perfect example of a local drive to do something incredible for the environment.  Here's the latest update on where the cities and towns rank.

The debate in San Jose continues.  As a refresher, here is what the City Council is considering.

As more and more cities and towns across the world ban or tax plastic bags, the momentum against plastic bag use is really picking up.  One blogger in Chicago questions how Mexico City is able to ban on non-biodegradeable plastic bags, and yet a progressive city like Chicago cannot?  At ConservingNow.com we are inspired by all cities, large and small, and their commitment to ridding o