Plastic Bag Fee Comes Into Force in Japan

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Japan has joined a growing number of countries charging for disposable plastic bags. It must be noted that the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) had noted that Japan has the second highest per capita plastic packaging consumption globally, next only to the U.S.

As per government guidelines, the stores are required to charge a minimum of 1 Yen per bag. The initiative is aimed at encouraging shoppers to bring their own bags, thereby reducing plastic waste.

Retail giants have already joined the campaign. For instance, Lawson, which has hundreds of retail stores across the country, has started charging 3 yen per plastic bag. Moreover, they have made available, eco-friendly reusable bags for customers. The company had recently announced plans to shed use of plastic cups by changing to paper alternatives. Other convenience store chains- Seven-Eleven Japan Co, and FamilyMart Co., too have introduced plastic bag charges.

However, cutting plastic bag consumption will not solve the problem, as plastic bags account for just around 2% of the total plastic waste generated by the country. Meantime, Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that the restrictions will soon be extended to other plastic products as well.

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