Policy Evaluation on the Policy of Reducing the Use of Single-Use Plastic Bags (City of Banjarmasin)

Abstract

Plastic is a common material in our economy because of its versatility and durability. It is one of the most challenging material mixes in recycling because of its multi-layered structure. Thus, from an environmental, sustainable, and biocompatible point of view, the use of layered packaging materials should be limited.

In Banjarmasin City, plastic waste generation is growing along with the increasing population. As an effort to reduce the use of plastic, the Municipal Government of Banjarmasin became the first city to decide to ban the use of plastic bags.

Evaluation of this policy is needed to provide information to the public about environmentally friendly packaging and provide information to policymakers to consider outreach to the community because environmentally friendly lifestyle habits are not in line with knowledge about the benefits of reducing plastic waste, as many people do not adopt a friendly lifestyle even though they have knowledge about the benefits that can be obtained if they reduce the use of plastic waste.

Besides that, people's knowledge of the dangers of using plastic bags also needs to be increased because it will affect lifestyles that reflect environmentally friendly attitudes and tendencies to preserve the environment and minimize environmental pollution that still has the potential to come.

In changing lifestyles that support the plastic reduction program in the City of Banjarmasin, the community needs more in-depth education or socialization from the Government regarding the benefits of reducing plastic waste.