My grocery stores have recycling machines for glass and plastic and cans. We also have curb side recycling for glass, plastic and paper. When I visited my son in TX, they sold plastic bags for $1 in the grocery stores instead of giving them away. This has led to most people re-using ones they've bought or buying other types of 'permanent' grocery bags.

My daughter collects plastic bags, especially colored ones, and 'crochets' them into beautiful beach bags!!