Walmart Tests Eliminating Plastic Take Out Bags

California Product Stewardship Council
October 18, 2009

Walmart has initiated a 3-store pilot program to eliminate plastic
carry-out bags. The three stores are all in Northern California--Ukiah,
Folsom and Citrus Heights. The kickoff date in Ukiah is October 25.
Notices are posted in the store stating that no plastic carryout bags will
be available at the checkstands after that date.

To substitute for give-away plastic bags, Walmart is offering a light
reusable bag for 15 cents each, and a heavier reusable bag for 50 cents.

According to Angie Stoner, public affairs official for Walmart,
(479-721-9489), the corporation will consider adding additional Walmarts
to this program depending on the results.

This gives CPSC affiliates an opportunity to play an important role in
encouraging Walmart to expand this program. As the largest retailer in
the world, Walmart could decisively tip the balance on this issue. The
way that local jurisdictions can help is by immediately and aggressively
contacting Walmart and asking that Walmarts in their jurisdiction be added
to the pilot program.

Walmart's pilot program is an outgrowth of the corporation's
"sustainability policy" that includes initiates on many environmental
issues. Walmart has a specific goal of reducing plastic bag use by 33%
globally by 2013. Walmart has posted its plastic bag goals at
http://walmartstores.com/sites/sustainabilityreport/2009/en_w_fS.html