Sri Lanka’s recent decision to make it mandatory for businesses to charge for single-use polythene bags marks another attempt to steer the country toward a more environmentally responsible future. On paper, the move is sound since it discourages the use and careless disposal of polythene.

Many welcomed the Government’s decision, seeing it as a long-overdue step towards reducing plastic pollution. However, as with many policies, the implementation seems to have gaps. Critics point out that merely charging a small fee for polythene bags does not significantly reduce their use. Experience from previous attempts shows that when consumers want convenience, they simply pay for it, even if they do not completely agree with it. According to those who commented on the matter, many retailers too find it easier to continue providing polythene bags rather than shifting to alternatives.

There are news reports about a new proposal aiming to replace polythene bags with eco-friendly paper bags. This idea is unquestionably positive as paper bags, when produced sustainably, are biodegradable and far less damaging to the environment. However, the timing of this proposal raises questions about planning. Why was an alternative not introduced before or alongside the limitations on polythene bags? It is common sense to ensure a viable replacement before restricting a widely used product. When people are left without practical substitutes, policies lose their effectiveness and public resistance intensifies. Despite these concerns, the proposal for paper bags deserves support. Sri Lanka has several local paper-producing and recycling companies capable of manufacturing durable, environmentally friendly bags. Some have already been doing so for years but have lacked adequate support. A shift to paper could also stimulate local industries, create jobs and encourage innovation in packaging solutions.

However, for such a transition to be successful, legislation alone is not enough. Sri Lanka urgently needs a comprehensive awareness-raising campaign focused on reducing plastic consumption and encouraging sustainable habits. Environmental consciousness does not grow overnight. People must understand why change is needed and how their individual actions contribute to the country’s long-term wellbeing and the future of their children. Without this understanding, regulations will be viewed as inconveniences rather than collective steps toward a cleaner future.

The authorities have acknowledged that the polythene-charging rule is only the beginning of a larger mission against environmentally harmful products. If that mission is to succeed, it must be accompanied by continuous public education, consistent policy direction and proper engagement with industry stakeholders. Sri Lankans should not feel as though they are being forced into compliance. Instead, they should be encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices willingly and proudly. In this context, introducing paper bags, or any other sustainable alternative, also requires a proper national policy backed by subsidies, quality standards and awareness. Without such frameworks, the shift could fail. Lessons from other countries show that market-based transitions work best when Governments support industries during the adjustment period while ensuring that consumers are treated fairly.

In this context, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has an important role to play. It must ensure that prices remain reasonable, prevent unfair practices and regulate quality standards for paper bags and other eco-friendly products. If consumers are expected to embrace alternatives, those alternatives should be affordable, reliable and easily accessible. At the same time, the Government must ensure that local manufacturers receive the support they need to scale up production and maintain sustainable practices. Paper-based products should not only replace polythene but do so in a way that does not lead to excessive resource use.

The move to charge for polythene bags and introduce paper alternatives is a step in the right direction. As the country is most likely to take similar eco-friendly decisions in the future, it is time for us to acknowledge that planning, public engagement and support for eco-friendly industries are necessary and are a part of these decisions.