Eu aims for reduction in plastic bag usage as Sweden prepares to abolish tax

The European Union aims for each person to use no more than 40 plastic bags per year by 2025, while the current average in Sweden stands at 17 bags per person. As the plastic bag tax is set to be abolished, it is estimated that the cost of plastic bags will decrease by over three kronor. Joakim Brodahl, head of collaborations and sales at the organization Keep Sweden Tidy, expresses concern that this could lead to an increase in plastic bag consumption, citing the tax’s effectiveness in reducing bag purchases.

Consumer choice regarding bags is complex, according to Brodahl. He recommends using existing bags at home, but emphasizes that plastic is always worse than paper in terms of littering. He highlights the negative impact of plastic on nature and the oceans, noting that the goal should be to minimize plastic use for household waste. Brodahl advises opting for bags made from recycled plastic and as thin as possible, as they are less durable and won’t persist in the environment.

Currently, various types of plastic bags are available with labels indicating they are more environmentally friendly. However, Brodahl points out that even bags claiming to be made without fossil fuels are ultimately irrelevant if they end up in the ocean. If consumers must purchase a bag, he urges them to consider how it can be reused in the future, reinforcing the importance of sustainability in everyday choices.