Plastic Pollution Reduction Act (PPRA) - City of Longmont

Plastic Pollution Reduction Act (PPRA)

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Plastic Pollution Reduction Act (PPRA) Information

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Did you know Coloradans use an estimated 4.6 million single-use plastic bags every day? In an effort to reduce usage, the Colorado state legislature passed the Plastic Pollution Reduction Act (PPRA) in 2021.

The timeline for the implementation of the state's plastic pollution reduction act started in January 1 2023 for large retailers and grocery stores charging a fee of 10 cents per paper and plastic bags. On January 1, 2024 plastic bags and polystyrene cups and containers were banned. On April 1, 2024 retailers were required to remit 60% of fees collected since January 1, 2023. Lastly on July 1, 2024 municipalities can enact more stringent laws to manage or restrict plastics.

Colorado’s Plastic Pollution Reduction Act (HB21-1162) took effect Jan. 1, 2024, banning single-use plastic bags at large grocery, convenience and retail stores and banning polystyrene foam (more commonly known as Styrofoam™) takeout containers and cups at all restaurants and schools.

Businesses are prohibited from providing plastic bags except to use up remaining stock purchased before 2024 and must continue charging 10 cents for each paper or remaining plastic bag. Restaurants can use up remaining polystyrene containers, purchased before 2024. Currently “Small Stores” are exempted from the statewide plastic bag ban. To qualify as a “small store” the following three criteria must be met:

    • solely operating in Colorado
    • having three or fewer locations in the State
    • not being part of a franchise, corporation, or partnership that has locations outside of Colorado

For more information for businesses and consumers about the PPRA, visit the Support and Resources webpage or view the Eco-Cycle 2024 PPRA business guide.

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