California is doubling down on its commitment to eliminate single-use plastic waste. Two new state laws are set to phase out single-use plastic bags in produce aisles and at checkout, pushing the Golden State closer to a single-use plastic-free future. For retailers, that means a shift in operations, and a big opportunity to lead with sustainability.
At Lotus Sustainables, we’ve always believed that practical can be both beautiful and reusable. If you're a retailer in California, here's what you need to know and how to stay ahead with solutions your customers will feel good about bringing home.
What’s Changing: California’s New Plastic Bag Bans
January 1, 2025: Say Goodbye to Single-Use Plastic Produce Bags
Under SB 1046, California has banned single-use plastic pre-checkout bags (the kind you find in produce sections and bulk food aisles.)
What’s allowed instead:
-
Reusable produce bags
-
Certified compostable bags
-
Recycled paper bags
January 1, 2026: Plastic Checkout Bags Are Out, For Good
SB 1053 closes the loophole that allowed thicker plastic “reusable” bags to sneak in. Starting 2026, plastic bags at checkout will be a thing of the past.
What you can offer:
-
Recycled paper bags (starting at 20% post-consumer content and increasing to 50% by 2028)
-
True reusables - durable bags designed to last
Fee requirement: Retailers must charge 10¢ per checkout bag (except for SNAP/WIC customers).
Penalties for non-compliance:
-
$1,000/day for first violations
-
Up to $5,000/day for repeat offenses
Why It Matters - for both the Planet and Your Business
California’s first bag ban made waves, but it left some unintended plastic behind. Thicker bags became more common, and in some cases, waste actually increased. These new laws aim to close those gaps and make real progress on reducing plastic pollution.
For retailers, this is a chance to walk the talk on sustainability, and to meet rising customer expectations around climate-conscious choices.
How Retailers Can Prepare (and Thrive)
Here’s your action plan to stay ahead of the new laws and make a positive impact:
1. Rethink the Produce Aisle
Swap out single-use plastic with fully reusable bags and compostable options. Our 100% Organic Cotton and Premium Mesh Lotus Produce Bags are the perfect durable, washable, and sustainable solution.
2. Upgrade Your Checkout Setup
Start sourcing certified recycled paper bags that meet California’s evolving content requirements. And don’t forget to build that 10¢ fee into your POS system.
3. Offer Reusables That Do More
Provide your customers with thoughtful options they’ll love. Stock or give away branded reusable totes, cotton mesh bags, or insulated thermal bags that align with your store’s vibe.
4. Train Your Team and Inform Your Customers
-
Educate staff on what’s changing and why
-
Put up signage near checkouts and produce sections
-
Launch a “Bring Your Own Bag” campaign to build awareness early
5. Make It Simple (and Stylish) to Do Better
Reusable bags don’t have to be boring. At Lotus Sustainables, we design with intention, because when a bag looks good and works well, it doesn’t get left in the trunk. That’s the kind of utility that keeps customers coming back!
Quick-Glance Timeline
|
Effective Date |
What’s Changing |
|
January 1, 2025 |
Plastic produce/pre-checkout bags banned statewide |
|
January 1, 2026 |
All plastic checkout bags banned; 10¢ fee required |
|
By January 1, 2028 |
Paper bag content must be 40–50% post-consumer recycled fiber |
A California Future (That Doesn’t Come in Single-Use Plastic)
We believe change is doable and beautiful. These new California bag laws are a big step forward, and we’re here to help make that transition smooth, compliant, and even exciting.
Whether you need custom-branded totes, reusable produce bags, or just guidance on what works best for your retail setup, Lotus Sustainables is here to partner with you.
Need help preparing for the California bag bans? Let’s make single-use plastic-free shopping the new normal, together.