As plastic bag bans go into effect, some question the unintended consequences

Bans on single-use plastic bags — one of the most pervasive sources of pollution — are taking effect in cities and states across the U.S. as efforts to combat global plastic production pick up.
But while the moves are being lauded by environmentalists and the local governments that support them, some are questioning whether the move will be effective, primarily because of the unintended environmental consequences associated with replacement materials such as paper, thick plastic and reusable bags.
Plastic bags were widely introduced to American consumers in 1979 and were marketed as preferable to paper because they are durable, waterproof and have many functions, according to the United Nations Environment Programme.
(Read more: KAKE – News)