Walmart and Reynolds Consumer Products have agreed to halt the sale of specific plastic bags in Minnesota for two and a half years. This decision came after the state’s attorney general, Keith Ellison, accused the companies of misrepresenting the bags as recyclable.
The lawsuit targeted Reynolds’ blue or clear 13- and 30-gallon Hefty-brand plastic bags and Walmart’s Great Value brand bags. If the companies resume selling these bags after the moratorium, they must be labeled as non-recyclable as per the settlement agreements.
Under the settlement, Walmart and Reynolds will pay a total of $216,670, which includes profits from bag sales, attorney fees, and other financial relief as outlined in Ellison’s office press release.
According to the settlement document, the companies must establish legal review processes for marketing claims and provide annual anti-greenwashing training to their marketing teams.
Reynolds stated in a press release, “We believe these claims lack merit, but are pleased to put this matter behind us and remain committed to our sustainability mission.” A Walmart spokesperson declined to comment on the settlement.
Attorney General Ellison expressed satisfaction with the resolution, emphasizing the importance of accountability in green marketing practices. The settlement agreement does not admit guilt or violation by the defendants.
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