What is it about hotels that turns us into thieves? Oh yeah, the toiletries.
Well, the state of California sees your thieving ways and is attempting to ban all mini toiletries available at their hotels.
Though most bottles of shampoo, conditioner and other bathroom bits are usually complimentary, Californian establishments want to stop making them available.
This is in an attempt to reduce their use of plastic as most bottles of the stuff are made of it.
So, while you might love getting your money’s worth by stocking up, you can probably appreciate the goal of reducing plastic waste.
The decision was made after a Bill was passed by members of the California State Assembly who voted in favour of the Assembly Bill 1162.
Don’t worry though, it doesn’t mean that you’ll suddenly need to lug around a bunch of bathroom essentials from home, as these joints will most likely offer ‘bulk’ dispensers.
The Bill said all ‘lodgings establishments’ meaning hotels, motels, resorts, bed and breakfasts and holiday apartments will stop offering small plastic bottles holding 340ml or under of product in rooms or public spaces.
Buying bulk items would mean several guests can use the same dispensers without hotels having to replenish it.
‘The amount of plastic produced is increasing exponentially, and we must consider all options to reduce this pollution from entering our waste streams,’ said Assembly Member Ask Kalra.
‘While it may not appear to be a problem on an individual level, small plastic bottles that are less than 12 ounces represent a sizeable amount of waste collectively that the state must address.’
It’s now up to California’s governor Gavin Newsom to decide whether the ban should be made into law.
If so, it could mean establishments face hefty fines of up to $2,000 (£1,526) if they’re guilty of breaking the law more than once.
Though the decision may only affect California for now, Marriot hotels which operate worldwide, has already stopped mini bottles in favour of bulk dispensers.
RIP free toiletries. But hey, it’s all for a good cause.
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