Thousands of responses to Newfoundland and Labrador plastic bag ban survey

The first round of consultations on whether or not to ban single-use plastic bags in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador is over, and the Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment said a decision is “anticipated to be forthcoming in the near future.”

According to a report by CBC News, more than 2,800 online responses came in through the province’s engageNL website – the highest number of responses ever received, according to the department.

There were also more than 120 written submissions.

In mid-March, the provincial government made available a link to a survey. “Information gathered will assist in determining what implications a ban might have on businesses and the public, as well as what approach might reduce impacts on those who use, distribute, and make single-use plastic bags,” the government said in a statement.

The deadline to participate was March 27.

The Toronto-based Canadian Plastics Industry Association (CPIA) has responded to Newfoundland & Labrador’s initiative by sending the link to its own members, who can submit pro-plastics viewpoints. “At stake is a ban that would prohibit the use of plastic shopping bags in Newfoundland & Labrador,” CPIA said. “Bag bans are the thin edge of the wedge that will move to other plastic packaging…We need support from our industry and supporters to promote a voluntary approach to managing bags based on fact and science.”

Prince Edward Island voted in favour of a ban last year, but it doesn’t take effect until July 1.