Fairfax bans plastic yard waste bags

(GNB Desk): On Tuesday, the Fairfax County board of supervisors voted to formally prohibit plastic bags used for yard waste disposal on Tuesday.

The county executive proposed amendments to Fairfax County’s Solid Waste Management Ordinance to prohibit use of plastic bags for set-out and collection of yard waste. On Jan. 26, the Board of Supervisors voted to set a public hearing for Tuesday, Feb. 23.

The county’s solid waste management ordinance maintains that yard waste must be recycled. Under the amended ordinance, yard waste would be allowed to be collected in paper yard waste bags, reusable containers, or other approved storage devices but not plastic bags.

Since February of last year, the county has encouraged residents to stop using plastic bags for their yard waste and switch to compostable paper bags as a more eco-friendly option.

During the meeting, supervisors expressed both the positive and negative impacts of the switch but ultimately agreed on the common factor that switching to paper bags will not only save the county money down the line but also help improve the environment.

Springfield supervisor, Pat Herrity, who voted against the ban, shared many concerns about inconveniences the switch may cause for some residents.

After the public hearing and discussion, the board voted and the motion carried 9-1 to prohibit plastic yard waste bags.

For more information about compostable paper bags, click here.

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