Should Bristol Ban Plastic Bags?

Bristol appears to be the next community considering a ban on plastic bags in stores, EcoRInews.com reported this week.

The website quoted Town Councilor Timothy Sweeney as saying that Bristol should consider following Barrington's lead in imposing a prohibition on single-use plastic bags in markets and other shops, which went into effect on Jan. 1.

Sweeney proposed the idea at the council's Jan. 23 meeting, citing the potential dangers to fish and other marine life, the website noted.

What do you think?

Should Bristol ban plastic bags in stores? Would you be more likely to buy a reusable shopping bag — or do you use them already?

And do you think banning plastic bags can really help the environment — or is it more of a symbolic gesture?

Have your say in the comments below.