Write-ups advocating a nationwide ban on plastics can be found in many publications nowadays. The articles hearten people who are sacrificing so much time and effort in protecting the environment. Cited in some of these articles are the local government units—like Lucban in Quezon, Pagsanjan in Laguna, and Muntinlupa City—which ban the use of plastics for packaging or for wrapping purposes. These local government units and their officials deserve praise and commendation. We hope their “trailblazing example” will be followed by other LGUs.
For members of the No-Plastic Packaging Movement, another cause for hope is a Senate bill which is now with the Committee on Trade and Commerce. In its Aug. 8 hearing, the committee looked into how people could be swayed from using plastic materials. One senator suggested charging buyers an additional fee for every plastic bag used to carry merchandises from stores. This will encourage buyers to bring their own bags, he said, adding that the “bring-your-own bag” practice has been adopted in many countries.
Though self-discipline is indispensable in ensuring the success of this “no plastics” movement, a national law banning the use of plastics will give it teeth.
—ESTHER L. BARACEROS,
faculty member, College of Architecture,
University of Santo Tomas,
baracerosesther@yahoo.com.ph