B.C. reusable bag requirements expected in forthcoming regulation
November 1, 2022The B.C. Government held consultations on reducing the consumption of single-use items in Spring 2022. RCC’s expectation is that the regulation will mirror what is set out in the consultation document. The document includes a definition: “Reusable bag: A bag that is designed and manufactured to be used and machine washed at least 100 times.” RCC’s response to the consultation pointed out that the machine-washable requirement could eliminate good alternatives such as leather and jute.
RCC expects this requirement to come into effect in B.C. for 2024. Our expectation is also that the bags may be included under the province’s extended producer responsibility regime and thus could be subject to an eco-fee. Government has indicated that a “What We Heard” report is forthcoming followed by the regulation itself.
For questions or more information contact
Avery Bruenjes
Senior Manager, Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs
abruenjes@retailcouncil.org
