Brookhaven Town will transition from plastic bags to paper bags for yard waste pickup.

Councilwoman Connie Kepert introduced an initiative to make the switch, and it was approved by the town board on Tuesday. The transition could occur by April 2013, Kepert said.

Brookhaven’s switch to paper will be preceded by a yearlong effort by the town to educate residents and businesses about the change, Kepert said.

“Moving away from plastic bags to paper bags is a proven simple strategy,” Kepert said in a statement.

The town’s waste department estimates that the average Brookhaven homeowner will pay about $4.50 more per year because of the switch.

Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, cheered the move.

“A clear win for residents, the town and our environment,” Esposito said in a statement.

The Suffolk County towns of Riverhead and Southold have already made the switch to paper, as has North Hempstead in Nassau County.

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore. Credit: Randee Daddona, Morgan Campbell

Out East Show: Milk Pail u-pick farm; Lenny Bruno Farms; McCall Wines; Jamesport Farm Brewery NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore. Credit: Randee Daddona, Morgan Campbell

Out East Show: Milk Pail u-pick farm; Lenny Bruno Farms; McCall Wines; Jamesport Farm Brewery NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.

SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME