The Evolution and Impact of Plastic Bag Usage

This article explores the history of plastic bags, from their innovative design origins to their widespread use and the environmental challenges they pose. It highlights key milestones, including bans and recycling initiatives, showcasing the ongoing effort to reduce plastic waste.

In the 1970s, only a few grocery stores provided plastic bags to customers. Over time, their popularity surged, with around 100 billion plastic bags used annually worldwide. The first designs, created by Swedish company Celloplast, featured a tubular shape with handles, called "T-shirt plastic bags." By the late 1970s, these bags gained traction in stores. Major supermarket chains like Kroger and Safeway popularized them, citing their low cost, waterproof nature, and strength over paper alternatives. However, environmental concerns arose as plastic waste accumulated, leading cities like San Francisco to ban non-biodegradable bags. Efforts to reduce plastic bag usage continue across multiple states, emphasizing recycling and bans to mitigate environmental damage.