The objective and goal of applying the plastic bag charge policy should be explained in detail."Padang (ANTARA News) - Education and public awareness campaigns are crucial for the success of the governments plastic bag charge policy aimed at reducing the volume of plastic wastes, according to an environmental expert.
If the objective of levying a charge on the use of plastic bags is intended to conserve the environment, then it should be made known to the public through education and public awareness campaigns, Fadjar Goembira of the University of Andalas stated here.
Goembira observed that some customers were still bewildered on being asked to pay for plastic bags that they will take home. They thought it was based on economic consideration, he added.
"The objective and goal of applying the plastic bag charge policy should be explained in detail," he remarked.
The government should offer a detailed explanation to the public that the policy is aimed at reducing plastic wastes that have serious impacts on the environment.
Once the people become aware of the impacts of plastic wastes on the environment, they would voluntarily bring their own shopping bags from home, he pointed out.
Goembira suggested that the government should regularly evaluate and monitor the implementation of its policy to gauge the extent of its success or failure.
(Uu.F001/INE/KR-BSR)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
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