How To Live In The 21st Century

2. How does it fit with Compass’ core beliefs of equality, solidarity, democracy, freedom, sustainability and well being?

It is often suggested that plastic bags should be taxed to reduce their use. But this hits the consumer without punishing the companies producing them. Instead if all advertising and company logos were simply banned on unsustainable (non compostable) throwaway items, including bags and disposable cups, the incentive for companies to produce and spread these would be ended. It would thus maintain personal freedom while boosting sustainability.

3. How does it build the institutions of social democracy, like social groups and collective and cooperative forms of ownership and control?

Limited impact in this area. But worth noting that banning logos on disposable items would help reduce the consumer messages we are constantly subjected to, including “status” packaging that some shoppers use to broadcast “look how much money I’ve got: I can shop HERE!”. And of course it would end ubiquitous Starbucks and Tesco packaging everywhere. Instead all disposable cups and bags would be plain, dull, and consequently less desirable to all.

4. How much will it cost or raise and where will any cost come from?

It would cost absolutely nothing. Even for retailers production would be cheaper. It would discourage use of unsustainable disposable items and reduce costs of disposal, as well as long-term pollution costs.

5. Which groups in the electorate are likely to support or oppose this measure? Is there any polling evidence you have on this?

Those who want to escape from a wasteful consumer-obsessed world would welcome it. Retailers would hate it, as of course these items are effectively free advertising for them. But that’s exactly why they have a vested interest in continuing to circulate them (why else do shop staff continue to press plastic bags on us, despite these companies’ public protestations?) - and hence exactly why the policy is needed. Of course there would be a level playing field - all shops would be equally disadvantaged.

6. Is there a place or country where it’s worked? Please provide some information.

Lots of countries now tax plastic bags. But this policy seems preferable as a bag tax encourages consumers to blame government for added costs, while putting no pressure on retailers. I don’t know if it’s been tried elsewhere.

7. What are the three main arguments in favour/against it?

In favour:
- reduces waste and pollution
- reduces our exposure to endless advertising messages
- makes circulation of disposable items a clear net cost (rather than benefit) to companies, encouraging them to change behaviour

Against:
- unlike a tax it doesn’t pressure consumers to cut back, but getting retailers to do this is as good or better
- retailers will complain it imposes restrictions on them
- those who feel big and important when they carry home masses of logo-laden bags may loose a feelgood moment (or maybe that’s an advantage…)