Three months after the issue of a new environmental tax on plastic bags in an attempt to reduce the use and production of plastic bags to protect the environment, plastic bags are still selling well...
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| Plastic bags are still used by Maximark Nha Trang for packing goods. |
Three months after the issue of a new environmental tax on plastic bags in an attempt to reduce the use and production of plastic bags to protect the environment, plastic bags are still selling well.
Still in use because of cheapness, convenience and durability
To reduce negative effects on the environment, the Law on Environmental Taxes came into effect on January 1, 2012. Accordingly, plastic bags are taxed at VND30,000-VND50,000 per kilogram.
The levy hopes to not only change consumer behavior in relation to disposable plastic bags, but also raise national consciousness about the role each one of us play if we are to tackle collectively the problems of litter and waste management.
The charge hopes to encourage people to change their shopping habits and re-use bags. According to experts, plastic bags are an environmental hazard which takes decades to break down.
However, they are still in use because they are cheap, convenient, durable and easy to carry, pack and store.
Le Kim Oanh, a shopper at Vinh Hai, Nha Trang, says, "I know about the hazard of plastic bags on the environment, but it is just my shopping habit. Plastic bags are suitable for storing fresh food such as meat and fish."
It seems that many shoppers and retailers have not got rid of the habit of using plastic bags for all kinds of purchases. Nguyen Thi Tram, Binh Tan Market, Nha Trang says she sells 200kg of plastic bags a day to retailers.
Plastic bags range between VND40,000-70,000/kg while environmentally friendly bags cost much higher, at least VND2,000-5,000/bag.
Alternatives to plastic bags needed
Co.opMart Cam Ranh, Hoa Hung Confectionary Shop, Nha Trang, etc have also joined the effort to promote customer use of environmentally friendly bags.
Some big businesses such as Co.opMart Cam Ranh, Metro Cash & Carry Nha Trang, etc have provided some kinds of environmentally friendly bags which are made from eco-friendly, non-toxic and non-allergen fabrics.
Environment friendly bags also come in many designs, styles and colors to match every mood and need. These are reusable and can last for a long time. They range between VND2,000-15,000/bag.
The campaign against plastic bags in recent years has been launched in many communities. However, the results are not satisfactory as expected.
More public education is required to reduce the use of plastic bags and raise awareness of the environment.
In addition, support polices for environment friendly bag producing enterprises are required to have cheaper green products.
N.T
