The Town of Nanton is considering implementing a ban on single use plastics.

The topic was up for discussion at Council's meeting on Monday, January 20.

Nanton Mayor, Jennifer Handley says with the closure of their recycling centre coming, Council wanted to ensure they were still moving towards sustainability.

"In November we decided to close our recycling centre, which closes here in March. In the Waste Services Committee meeting it was brought up by one of our members that we should look at other items that actually don't decompose like single use grocery bags specifically." Handley adds "Most of the times when those bags were being brought to the recycling centre they were still ending up at the landfill because they were contaminated or there was no use for them. So as a small town of only 2200 people, we just want to make sure we're doing our part and being conscious about where our recyclables actually go."

So far feedback has been split but those who are opposed to the ban seem to be worried the Town is trying to regulate plastic use in their homes.

"Most of the feedback I've received has been online, definitely there has been questions about bags used in people's houses for garbage's, or doggy bags. There's been concerns about whether or not they can continue the use of those in their homes or if they'll be allowed to continue recycling them."

Handley says if the ban is implemented, Council will be focusing more on distribution points, and less on the private use of plastics in Nanton residences.

"Really our focus is more at the distribution points so with our stores in town. We've only got about 20 stores in Nanton, but we at least want to start our conversation there about if we really need to be putting these bags back into a landfill."

Council and administration are currently researching other single use plastic bans that have been implemented by other Towns and Municipalities like that of Wetaskiwin.

In Wetaskawin retailers have been prohibited from selling or distributing single-use plastic checkout bags thinner than 2.0 millimeters thick.

This ban applies to any location where goods are offered for sale, including grocery stores, retail stores, farmers' markets, fast food or restaurants.

Exceptions to their ban include plastic bags used to contain fresh meat products, bulk food or hardware items, freshly prepared bakery items.

Professional laundering bags and any plastic bags used to contain dirty, greasy, or hazardous materials.

Handley says Council is even entertaining the idea of having bags available at stores in town, but charging a set amount like 15-cents per bag.

Administration will continue their research and then collaborate with Nanton Chamber of Commerce to ensure the success of the program with businesses and residents before anything is truly put in place.

 

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