Dutchess County is the latest region to limit the use of single-use plastic bags ahead of a statewide ban.

The countywide single-use plastic bag ban comes ahead of an upcoming statewide ban effective March 1.

Despite the statewide ban date, shoppers in Dutchess County were told to carry reusable bags beginning Jan. 1.

County Executive Marc Molinaro released a statement, saying in part, “…preserving the environment for future generations of Dutchess county residents is a top priority, a shared responsibility in which we can all take part and pride."

Gov. Andrew Cuomo is also expected to address the issue in the state of the state address on Wednesday, Jan. 7.

News 12 is told the county Legislature estimates its ban on single-use plastic bags will eliminate 100 million bags from the waste stream.

Reporter Michelle Brown spoke with a consumer who supports the environmentally friendly idea.

“Everybody should be using this, save the planet, save the whales. Don’t even use the paper, save the trees” says Beacon resident Patty Howe.