STROUDSBURG, Pa. — The shopping experience could change for some in Monroe County after a borough considers banning single-use plastic bags.
"A lot of municipalities in Pennsylvania have passed ordinances, and even other states like New York, for example, they don't allow plastic bags," said Stroudsburg Borough manager Larry Kopp.
The borough launched a survey to gauge public opinion on a possible ban. Newswatch 16 visited a few businesses in the borough to find out what owners think. Sam Sharma owns the Ann Street Mini Mart. He tells Newswatch 16 he spends about $700 a year on plastic bags and would be happy to eliminate them.
"It's good for the environment, good for consumer, and good for business because it saves the plastic. It is a big headache for us to have to continuously supply that," said Sharma.
Just around the corner, the owner of Zam Zam Farm Market says there are other ways to be more environmentally friendly.
"I don't think we are going to save the planet by just getting rid of bags. Educating people would be better, in my opinion. Instead of saying no, we're not doing this anymore, we can start educating people," said Sel Cen.
The change is not a done deal, but if the council does decide to eliminate the bags, businesses in the borough would have to ditch the plastic for paper or encourage customers to bring reusable bags.
"We want to have our streets look clean, our sidewalks look clean, so a lot of times when you have the plastic bags, they end up on the street, which is what we are trying to avoid," explained Kopp.
"Believe me, they get used to it, and eventually, they will remember to carry a personal bag with them," added Sharma.
The online survey is open for one week. To participate, click here.