ENR is waiving the 25-cent fee on disposable shopping bags across the NWT, effectively immediately. The waiver will be in place until June 30, 2020.

This decision is in support of NWT retailers who are working hard to provide essential services to northerners. These stores have asked us to waive bag fees as an additional precautionary measure to protect their staff from COVID-19 by providing customers with the option of free disposable bags.

The NWT Chief Public Health Officer supports this temporary measure as part of a broader approach to protecting those in our communities who are most at risk. This includes dedicated shopping time for seniors and the immunocompromised, reduction to the number of customers allowed to shop at one time and physical barriers at checkout. If you use reusable bags, wash them frequently to prevent the spread of pathogens and food contamination.

ENR appreciates the efforts of our businesses as we work together to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We all have a role to play in keeping our communities healthy.

For the latest health advice and status of COVID-19 in the Northwest Territories, visit: www.hss.gov.nt.ca.

For changes to ENR services in response to COVID-19, visit: www.enr.gov.nt.ca/coronavirus.