The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) announced an effort to reduce waste on Guam by no longer issuing single-use shopping bags starting in March.

In accordance with Title 10 GCA Chapter 54B, dated Jan. 1, 2019, and the Guam Environmental Protection Agency (Guam EPA), disposable carryout bags will no longer be available at Guam Commissaries effective March 15, 2024.

“DeCA is committed to complying with applicable local and territorial laws restricting the use of plastic and paper single-use bags…We plan to implement a phased approach to eliminate single-use bags that takes into account our patrons’ needs and logistical limitations.” said John Hall, DeCA Director and CEO.

Commissary customers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags from home or purchase reusable or hot/cold bags from the selection available at each store. 

DeCA will post signs with more details in the Naval Base Guam (Orote) and Andersen Air Force Base commissaries to keep patrons informed.

Elimination of single-use bags will be a major shift in commissary patron shopping habits, and DeCA will address potential concerns during the transition process.

DeCA will also provide additional resources toward education and awareness to ease the transition.

For more information on DeCA’s environmental programs visit corp.commissaries.com for the latest updates.