The Plastic Baggers: An Evaluation of a Boutique Cause in Targeted Environmentalism

Abstract

During the past few years Australian shoppers have been subjected to a large scale attempt to get them to change the way they carry their purchases out of the store. The vehicle for this effort has been moves to restrict, and eventually ban, the use of the singlet-type, HDPE (high density polyethylene) carrier bag, liberally dispensed by a range of retail outlets including supermarkets, takeaway stores, newsagents, pharmacies, bottle shops, convenience stores, and other outlets (the thicker, boutique style bags associated with department stores are low density polyethylene).