CARDIFF, Calif. (FOX 5\/KUSI) \u2014 A new California law aimed at reducing plastic waste is already changing the checkout experience for shoppers across the state, including in North County.<\/p>\n
As of Jan. 1, plastic carryout bags are no longer allowed at checkout counters statewide. The new rule requires grocery stores and retailers to offer paper bags for a fee or encourage customers to bring their own reusable bags.<\/p>\n
At Seaside Market in Cardiff, the transition is already underway.<\/p>\n
Shoppers moving through the aisles this week noticed the difference immediately when they reached the register: paper bags only.<\/p>\n
Seaside Market managers say the store had months to prepare.<\/p>\n
Local shopper Julie Moss said she supports the move, especially given the store\u2019s proximity to the coast.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt keeps plastic bags out of the ocean, plain and simple,\u201d Moss said.<\/p>\n
She added that the shift feels like a step in the right direction when it comes to reducing waste and protecting nearby beaches.<\/p>\n
The legislation behind the change was authored by\u00a0Senator Catherine Blakespear, whose district includes much of coastal North County. Blakespear has emphasized the global impact of plastic waste, noting that hundreds of billions and potentially up to a trillion \u2014 plastic bags are used and discarded worldwide each year.<\/p>\n
Seaside Market is not alone in making the switch.<\/p>\n
Across California, major retailers including Vons, Target, Trader Joe\u2019s and Sprouts have also eliminated plastic checkout bags. Many now offer paper bags for a small fee, while encouraging shoppers to bring reusable bags from home.<\/p>\n
While some customers say they are still adjusting to remembering their own bags, others believe the change is overdue.<\/p>\n
\u201cSeeing plastic bags and old plastic rings wrapped around animals that wash up on the beach \u2014 it\u2019s heartbreaking,\u201d one shopper said.<\/p>\n
Not everyone supports the transition. Some customers have raised concerns about the added cost of paper bags and the inconvenience of reusable bags, especially during large grocery runs or last-minute stops.<\/p>\n
Still, state leaders and many shoppers say the goal is long-term environmental impact \u2014 even if it takes time to adjust.<\/p>\n
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