It’s no surprise states across the nation are starting to ban single-use plastic bags in large retail locations. Considering even the most obvious drawbacks to these types of containers and materials, it’s relieving to know states and countries around the world are stepping in.

Starting with California in 2016, several states have banned single-use plastic bags based on voter determination. More recently, Michigan became the seventh. Here are just three of the countless benefits a ban on plastic shopping bags can give us.