Hotels in Illinois to Implement Surprising Change to Combat Plastic Waste

hand throwig bottle into a pile of bottles

Illinois is set to ban mini shampoo bottles in hotel rooms, signaling a significant shift in the state’s approach to reducing plastic waste.

At a Glance

Illinois will ban single-use plastic toiletry bottles under 6 ounces in hotels
The ban takes effect July 1, 2025, for larger hotels and January 1, 2026, for smaller ones
Violators face fines up to $1,500 for repeated offenses
Hotels are expected to transition to refillable containers
Similar laws exist in other states, including California and New York

Illinois Takes Action Against Single-Use Plastics

Governor JB Pritzker has signed the Small Plastic Bottle Act into law, banning hotels in Illinois from providing small, single-use plastic bottles containing personal-care products. This move aims to reduce plastic waste and promote more sustainable practices in the hospitality industry. The ban applies to bottles under 6 ounces that are not intended for reuse, including those for shampoo, conditioner, and bath soap.

The new law will be implemented in two phases. Larger hotels with 50 or more rooms must comply by July 1, 2025, while smaller establishments have until January 1, 2026, to make the necessary changes. This phased approach allows businesses time to adapt their practices and find suitable alternatives.

Enforcement and Compliance

The legislation includes measures to ensure compliance. First-time offenders will receive a written warning, but subsequent violations can result in fines of up to $1,500. However, the law does provide some flexibility, allowing hotels to provide these products upon request at locations other than guest rooms or public bathrooms.

The ban is expected to push hotels towards more sustainable options, such as refillable containers. This transition aligns with broader efforts to reduce plastic pollution and its environmental impact, particularly on oceans and waterways.

Part of a Larger Trend

Illinois is not alone in this initiative. Similar laws have been enacted in Washington, New York, and California, indicating a growing national trend towards reducing single-use plastics in the hospitality sector. Some major hotel chains, including Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt, have already begun phasing out small plastic bottles in favor of larger, refillable dispensers.

This legislation is part of a broader environmental strategy in Illinois. The state has previously passed a partial ban on Styrofoam containers for state facilities and agencies, demonstrating a commitment to reducing various forms of plastic waste.

Industry and Environmental Support

The bill has garnered support from various sectors. Marriott International, the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, and the Illinois Recycling Association have all backed the legislation. Environmental groups have also praised the move, highlighting its potential impact on reducing plastic pollution.

While the ban represents a significant step towards reducing plastic waste, some environmental advocates argue that stronger laws are needed to further reduce plastic production and promote recycling. As the hospitality industry adapts to these changes, it remains to be seen how this initiative will impact both businesses and the environment in the long term.