Queen Anne’s County Launches “Bring Your Own Bag” Campaign to Promote Reusable Bag Use This Holiday Season
The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners, in partnership with Plastic Free QAC, have launched a new public awareness campaign — BYOB! Bring Your Own Bag — encouraging residents to use reusable bags throughout the holiday shopping season and beyond.
To support this effort, free reusable bags are now available at several convenient locations across the county, while supplies last. Residents can pick up a bag at:
- Queen Anne’s County Library – (Centreville, Kent Island and Mobile locations)
- Chesapeake Heritage and Visitors Center
- Queen Anne’s County Chamber of Commerce
- Sudlersville, Grasonville and Kent Island Senior Centers
- Active Aging Center at the YMCA in Centreville
- Queen Anne’s County Vincit Building, Centreville
The campaign officially began with County Commissioners proclaiming December as “Bring Your Own Bag Month” in Queen Anne’s County, a time to promote environmental stewardship while supporting local businesses during the busiest shopping season of the year.
“Every small change adds up,” said County Commissioner Phil Dumenil. “By remembering to bring your own bag when shopping especially at our local small businesses you’re helping reduce waste and protect our environment for future generations.”
The BYOB campaign builds on the County’s partnership with Plastic Free QAC, following the success of the Single-Use Boat Shrinkwrap Recycling Initiative, which has diverted more than 13 tons of plastic from landfills since its launch in 2023 and the Reel in and Recycle initiative to recycle used fishing line. All of these efforts align with Queen Anne’s County’s commitment to promoting sustainability through local action.
Funding for the production and distribution of reusable bags was provided through the Queen Anne’s County Recycling Surcharge Fund, ensuring that this initiative supports environmental improvement without the use of general funds.
The BYOB campaign aims to build awareness around the environmental impact of single-use plastics while helping residents develop lasting, sustainable habits. The County plans to distribute 10,000 reusable bags as part of this initiative.
For more information about the BYOB campaign, pick-up locations, and tips on transitioning to reusable bags, visit https://www.plasticfreeqac.com/ or follow Queen Anne’s County Government and Plastic Free QAC on social media for updates and information.