Texas is famous for its National Parks and diverse wildlife. Over the past few years, however, there have been many reported incidents of wildlife and livestock being in trouble due to discarded single-use plastics. There is also a danger to bodies of water and substantial environmental implications with plastic waste. However, the continuing use of, or ban on, plastic bottles and bags is not an issue everyone agrees on.   

Many local authorities have seriously considered a move to ban plastic bags and bottles, and there was one ban enacted in Laredo. The move was overturned by the Texas Supreme Court in 2018, much to the dismay of environmentalists across the state. The ruling stated that local bans went against state law.

However, for those in the plastic bag/container manufacturing business, any ban on plastic bags and bottles is a huge hit. They draw their support from the Texas State Solid Waste Disposal Act, which “prohibits cities from managing trash by banning or restricting containers and packages.” Some dispute whether plastic bags are included in ‘plastic containers and packages.’

The recent reversal of the plastic ban has indirectly encouraged people to go back to their old ways of indiscriminately using plastics. All the while, farmers continue to encounter livestock loss due to swallowing discarded plastic bags. Pro-reversal groups say that people are open to a new way of shopping by carrying reusable bags, which will decrease the environmental impact.

Environmental crusaders are working to increase awareness among people through campaigns like ‘Take care of Texas’ so that people realize the harm that plastic bags can cause. On the other hand, the plastic industry feels that anti-dumping and littering laws are already in place, and stores are also doing their bit by encouraging people to bring their own bags. 

In light of these opposing views, should Texas ban plastic bags and water bottles?