Save the Plastic Bag Coalition v. City of Manhattan Beach

Opinion

CORRIGAN, J.

Here we consider two questions: (1) What are the standing requirements for a corporate entity to challenge a determination on the preparation of an environmental impact report (EIR)? (2) Was the City of Manhattan Beach required to prepare an EIR on the effects of an ordinance banning the use of plastic bags by local businesses?

Plaintiff, a coalition of plastic bag manufacturers and distributors, claims standing to maintain a citizen suit to vindicate the public interest in environmental quality. The trial court and the Court of Appeal granted plaintiff standing on that…