Ban on Plastic Bags Usage: Consumer Perception of Single-Use Plastic Bags in Traditional Market

Abstract

The policy of prohibiting the use of disposable plastic bags in force in Indonesia is an attempt by the government to reduce the amount of plastic waste. However, the effectiveness of the policy is still questionable, because it is only applied in modern retail stores, while the biggest contributor to plastic bag waste is in the traditional market. This study aims to determine consumer perceptions of government policy regarding the prohibition of the use of disposable plastic bags in traditional markets and the amount of their willingness to pay (willingness to pay) for each plastic bag used. Data was collected using a survey questionnaire to traditional market consumers. The results of the study revealed that the majority of consumers agreed if the policy was applied in traditional markets, but with a note of its gradual application. They also agreed with the implementation of paid plastic bags. Their reasoning is based on the perception that the policy can increase public awareness and concern to reduce the use of disposable plastic bags. The average value of consumers' willingness to pay for a plastic bag varies and can still be reached, so consumers are still willing to pay more. So, if you want to reduce the use of plastic bags in the community, the price of plastic bags must be even more expensive or look for alternatives to plastic bags, such as the use of shopping baskets/bags or the use of environmentally friendly plastic bags.