A Malaysian initiative to reduce plastic bags has not had a significant effect in reducing plastic waste going into landfills, new research shows.
The study found the No Plastic Bag Saturday policy, which bans and taxes plastic bags, has had little effect in reducing plastic entering the biosphere – all the areas of the earth occupied by life.
Researchers, led by Dr Victoria Little, observed shopping behaviours and talked to a range of people including shoppers, retailers and waste management experts.
The research team suggested a range of other measures to combat the problem, including more anti-litter campaigns, tougher penalties and more convenient recycling facilities.
Read more at Monash University