California to Ban All Plastic Bags in Grocery Stores by 2026

California is set to eliminate all plastic bags from grocery stores by the beginning of 2026, following a significant settlement announced by Attorney General Rob Bonta. This decision comes after years of legislative efforts aimed at reducing environmental pollution caused by plastic waste.

The settlement, revealed on October 17, 2025, involves four major plastic bag manufacturers: Revolution Sustainable Solutions, Metro Poly, PreZero US Packaging, and Advance Polybag. Under the terms, these companies will collectively pay $1.7 million in penalties for violating California law by selling thicker plastic bags that are not recyclable, despite their claims otherwise.

California’s journey toward a ban on plastic bags began in 2016 when voters approved Proposition 67, which prohibited supermarkets and retail stores from offering flimsy single-use plastic bags. While the law initially allowed for thicker reusable plastic bags, investigations revealed that these bags were not being recycled as advertised. Bonta emphasized that the thick plastic bags contribute significantly to environmental damage, stating, “Billions of plastic carryout bags end up in landfills, incinerators, and the environment instead of being recycled.”

The upcoming ban, effective January 1, 2026, aligns with broader environmental goals, aiming to mitigate ocean pollution and littering. Environmental advocates have long criticized the use of plastic bags due to their detrimental impact on wildlife and ecosystems. Nick Lapis, director of advocacy for Californians Against Waste, highlighted the absurdity of using a product for a few minutes that lasts for centuries in the environment.

Bonta’s office conducted extensive investigations into the recycling capabilities of plastic bags, surveying 69 waste processing facilities across California. Alarmingly, only two facilities claimed to accept plastic bags, but they could not confirm that any were actually recycled. “These bags are not recyclable at any meaningful scale anywhere in California,” Bonta stated, underscoring the deceptive practices of the manufacturers involved.

As the state moves toward this new regulation, some grocery chains like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s have already transitioned to exclusively offering paper bags. Customers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags, further promoting sustainable practices.

Despite the push for environmental protection, not all stakeholders are in agreement. Republican lawmakers and certain retail associations have criticized the ban, labeling it excessive. James Gallagher, Assembly Republican Leader, argued that there is no significant need for such stringent mandates, advocating for consumer choice instead.

The impact of California’s plastic bag regulations has been notable. Data from the California Coastal Commission revealed a substantial reduction in plastic bag litter, dropping from 8.7% of collected litter in 2009 to just 1.6% in recent years. Eben Schwartz, the marine debris program manager at the commission, referred to this decline as “a huge success story,” affirming that these measures are effective in protecting marine life and promoting environmental health.

As the countdown to the ban continues, California sets a precedent for other states and countries grappling with plastic pollution. The collective efforts of state officials, environmental groups, and conscientious consumers illustrate a growing commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility.