In July of 2018, the city and county council of Honolulu, HI, passed a bill banning the use of plastic checkout bags and non-recyclable paper bags for businesses. Area residents may have already begun to see the ways in which this new law will change how they acquire goods while running errands. As a local veterinarian’s office, Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital falls under the new law and is here to explain which types of changes their clients can expect to see during visits.

How a Local Veterinarian’s Office Is Responding to the Ban on Plastic & Non-Recyclable Paper Bags

What Does the Ban Entail?

According to the council, businesses are now prohibited from issuing plastic bags for prescription medications, food items, and other goods to customers upon checkout. The law also prohibits the use of non-recyclable paper bags for the same purpose. Reusable bags, compostable plastic bags, and recyclable paper bags may be sold to customers who need them at a minimum rate of 15 cents per bag.

While plastic bags have been identified as harmful to marine life, they can have far-reaching environmental impacts beyond aquatic species alone. As a result, ultra-thin plastic bags have been banned in countries all over the world to combat marine plastic pollution. Oahu, which has recycling rates above the national average, is now doing its part to ban this type of plastic to limit pollution and encourage locals to conserve resources. With the new law, recycling is incentivized as shoppers can enjoy savings by bringing their own reusable bags from home.

How Will It Impact Office Visits?

Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital currently uses paper bags when clients pick up pet medications and other items from the office. Now, the staff must charge 15 cents per bag for clients who wish to use office-provided bags. Containing pet medications is important to keep them safe during transportation, but clients are free to bring their own bags if desired.

The caring team from Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital is committed to playing a role in protecting all animal species, including those in our oceans. If you have any questions for their staff, feel free to call the office at (808) 671-7387. You can also learn more about the veterinarians’ extensive range of surgeries, including after-hours emergency visits, by visiting their website.