‘One month after removing free lightweight plastic bags from checkouts, Australian supermarket giant Coles has decided to offer thicker reusable plastics bags for free, indefinitely. This unprecedented move is in response to strong backlash by customers who are struggling to switch to reusable bags.
‘We know that offering free lightweight plastic bags causes excessive plastic use. We also know that banning lightweight bags can increase the use of heavier plastic bags (such as bin liners). Coles’ decision brings out the worst of both worlds: giving out heavier plastic bags for free.
‘… Behavioural economics suggests that people are more sensitive to loss than gains, so financial disincentives for plastic bags are particularly useful. For example, it has been found that use of single-use bags can decrease substantially when a charge is framed as a tax, compared to a bonus for bringing reusable bags.’
- Why Coles’ plastic bag backflip leaves us worse off than before »
- Coles backs down on plastic bag ban, will hand out thicker bags as customers ‘need more time’ »
- How the ‘yeah-but’ mentality stalls progress on bag bans and other green issues »
- Plastic-free campaigns don’t have to shock or shame. Shoppers are already on board »
- Why compostable plastics may be no better for the environment »
- Queensland’s plastic bag ban is official, along with recycling refund »
- ‘Biodegradable’ plastic will soon be banned in Australia. That’s a big win for the environment »
- Today’s the final straw: Queensland’s ban on single-use plastics begins »
- Plastic action or distraction? As climate change bears down, calls to reduce plastic pollution are not wasted
- Coles to ditch soft-plastic bags at check-outs by end of June
- Australian supermarkets look overseas for solutions to REDcycle soft-plastic stockpile woes
- One year on from REDcycle’s collapse, Australia remains without soft plastics recycling program