4 ms·
> In making polluting goods more expensive, you open up space for competition that uses fewer pollutants to offer similar goods at lower prices. I think we’re
by Permit 4y ago
> In making polluting goods more expensive, you open up space for competition that uses fewer pollutants to offer similar goods at lower prices.
I think we’re in agreement. I’d just say that if you make a good more expensive but then immediately reimburse the consumer for that extra expense then you are not really making that good more expensive. A good system should make sure that a polluting good is expensive and that consumers feel that expense.
- ppeetteerr 4y agoExpensive is relative. If there is an alternative good of cheaper price, then the original good is expensive. For instance, if a grocer charges $0.10 per plastic bag to the consumer, but $0 to the consumer for paper bags, the consumer is likely to consume the paper bag. That extra $0.10 can then be used to lower the cost of other things because the company's profits are slightly higher. The rebate to the consumer from those paying for plastic is negligible because it's not perceived to be in direct relation to the immediate purchase (the cheaper cost of the paper bag is, however). What does the consumer do with the extra money? They consume more of the cheaper product which is hopefully more environmentally sustainable.