Plastic bags are everywhere—and they're choking our environment. In Park Ridge, the City Council is considering a ban on plastic grocery bags, but so far, the proposal would only apply to a few big stores like Jewel and Mariano’s. That’s a start—but it’s not enough.

Every year, Americans use billions of plastic bags, many of which end up polluting rivers, storm drains, and eventually, our oceans. Park Ridge doesn’t have to wait for national change to do its part. We can take real, local action now to reduce plastic waste—if our leaders are willing to be bold.

Right now, some members of the City Council support a limited ban on plastic bags for large retailers over 10,000 square feet. But others, including residents and the chair of the Sustainability Commission, are asking a critical question: if we know these bags harm the environment, why not ban them across the board?

This ban will keep thousands of unnecessary plastic bags out of landfills and waterways. It sends a message that Park Ridge cares about sustainability and future generations. And it encourages people to shift toward reusable options that are better for our planet.

We’re calling on the Park Ridge City Council—including Mayor Marty Maloney and the alderpeople—to pass a comprehensive ban on single-use plastic bags across all retail locations in the city, not just the biggest stores. Small businesses, community members, and city leaders can work together to implement this responsibly and fairly.

Park Ridge has an opportunity to lead by example. Let’s take the small but meaningful step of eliminating single-use plastic bags—everywhere in our city.

Sign this petition to demand a full ban on plastic bags in Park Ridge—and help build a cleaner, more sustainable community for everyone.