CITY OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY MAKES HISTORIC CONSERVATION DECISION

24 May 2012,

With an overwhelming 13-1 vote, the Los Angeles City Council made a clear statement and is poised to save an estimated 2.7 billion single-use bags. Comprising more than four million people, this is the largest municipality in the country to ban plastic bags.

Annually, U.S. consumers use 100 billion plastic bags, all of which are derived from fossil fuels. In California alone, consumers use more than 19 billion plastic grocery and merchandise bags each year.

"This is a fantastic decision, and proves that California is really ready to make a difference. This vote is consistent with current trends and further encourages similar efforts throughout the State," said Christopher Chin, COARE's Executive Director. "The message is loud and clear. We're telling the world that we've had enough plastic bags."

Through its "Enough with the plastic already!" campaign, COARE seeks to reduce the amount of ocean-bound waste by helping people become more aware of how their habits affect the world around them. COARE raises public awareness of some very commonly overlooked sources of trash, and encourages people everywhere to examine their choices.