The plastic bag is a major cause of the plastic soup that is polluting the oceans. According to the Earthy Policy Institute 1 trillion plastic bags are handed out in the world each year. Less than one percent are recycled. Cities and towns across the U.S have started to ban the bags. However, beginning today, Hawaii will become the first state in the country to ban plastic bags. Retailers caught violating the ban will face steep fines, anywhere from $100 to $1,000 dollars per day. California is considering a similar ban. Late last year the European Union took a big step towards a ban too.
Hawaii first U.S. state to ban the plastic bag
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