NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. -- Leaders in the City of North Myrtle Beach are taking efforts to protect beaches and waterways. The city will become the 15th community in South Carolina to require businesses to eliminate the use of plastic bags to help reduce pollution.
On July 1, 2022, a restriction on “single-use” plastic bags will take effect within the City of North Myrtle Beach. A single-use carryout plastic bag is defined in the City’s Code of Ordinances Section 12-111 as “a bag provided by a company or individual to a customer, typically at the point of sale, for the purpose of transporting purchases, which is made predominantly of plastic derived from petroleum or a biologically based source. This definition includes bags provided to a customer to transport items provided free of charge, including but not limited to, samples and informational materials.”
Making the change from single-use plastic bags will not be easy, but the outcome will be worth it. Studies show 13 million tons of plastic makes its way into our oceans and waterways each year.
So, what does this mean for you, your family, or your business? What are the alternatives to single-use plastic bags?
- Paper bags may be an option
- No bags may be an option
- Reusable bags may be an option
- Charging a fee for paper or reusable bags may be an option
Several businesses in North Myrtle Beach are using paper bags or offer reusable bags for customers to purchase. A few require customers to bring their own bags, and some are beginning to add a fee for bags or carryout.
Public service and paid announcements will be released prior to July 1 to alert local residents, visitors and businesses about the ordinance.
Also, Destination North Myrtle Beach has added information to the chamber’s website that provides information for visitors, residents, and businesses.
Thank you for your attention to this new ordinance. It’s a change in how you may do business. The real change, however, will happen in the results of eliminating plastics on our beaches and in the ocean and waterways.
To read the ordinance click here.
To see Destination NMB click here.