Research and analysis
Sparking a National Culture Shift to Reduce Plastic Bag Waste
Cultivating new habits that reduce waste is hard, but the Consortium to Reinvent the Retail Bag is laying the foundation to make this possible.
From the Consortium’s largest in-market reusable bag tests in Denver and Tucson in 2023, we unlocked groundbreaking insights on what it takes to encourage and support new consumer behaviors that enable reuse and reduction––such as bringing your own reusable bag or opting to go without one.
After three months of testing reuse solutions in market 160+ retailers, from mom-and-pop shops to national retail chains, we paved the way to reduce millions of bags.
Learn about the Consortium’s strategy to scale reuse and drive a cultural shift, and the impact of collective action on reducing plastic waste.
What was the impact from our in-market tests?
- Up to 9.5 million fewer single-use bags used per year based on pilot results
- Up to 187,148 pounds of materials reduced
- Up to 190 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent avoided
- 375+ stores participated across Denver and Tucson
Inspired by our impact?
Learn more about how you can get involved!
Are you a retailer?
Learn tactical solutions to help your customers bring their own bags or go without one while future proofing your business against regulation and changing behavior.
Are you a policymaker or advocacy group?
Access the latest research, policy guidance and best practices for developing and implementing effective regulations on single-use plastic bags. Connect with us to build relationships with key decision makers to help shape effective laws and regulations for the future.
Are you a consumer?
Learn simple tips for reducing plastic bag waste in your daily life. Engage your local organizations and legislators to eliminate single-use bag waste.