Shelfspace has teamed up with other industry groups to lobby against a proposed 25 cent levy on plastic carry bags. This proposal, put forth to the city of Vancouver is meant to change consumer behaviour and reduce the number of plastic carry bags; however, historically we note that taxing these items has not lead to the desired outcome.

Related Background Information:

• The “green fee,” which imposes a tax on Styrofoam containers, was approved by Seattle’s city council went into effect Jan. 1, 2009.
• San Francisco placed a 17-cent levy on plastic bags in 2005.
• In March of 2002, the Republic of Ireland imposed a similar 17-cent tax on plastic shopping bags to reduce usage and protect the environment. The results were a 10% increase in plastic resin imports following the imposition of the tax, retailers switching to other options each with their own environmental implications, and tremendous inconvenience to the consumers/taxpayers.
• Scotland was also considering imposing a similar tax. However, after careful review of the situation in Ireland and considerable stakeholder input, it was determined that such a fee would not be levied on plastic bags.

Let us know what you think should be done.