Ban the Bag Lake Oswego, OR

Oregon chapter volunteers and staff are working to advance a sustainable shopping initiative that includes a plastic bag ban in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Surfrider Foundation's on the ground advocacy has included a range of efforts from ongoing testimony and engagement with the City Council and sustainability staff to collaborative outreach efforts with City staff, local grocers and businesess and waste management professionals. Advancing a strong policy in Lake Oswego is part of our ongoing strategy on the ground to help Oregon lead towards a plastic bag-free shopping future!

Victory! On December 4, 2018, the City of Lake Oswego voted 6-1 in favor of passing the proposed plastic bag ordinance. The policy reflects the strongest bag policy to date in the state of Oregon, with a 10 cent fee on paper. City staff did an excellent job of researching and recommending the best policy possible with strong public engagement. With more cities this year passing plastic bag ordinances in the State of Oregon than in the last 10 years, we're likely to see this at the Capitol in 2019!