Aren paper bags worse?
Opponents to a ban on plastic bags frequently claim that a ban will increase the use of paper bags, the manufacture of which emit more greenhouse gases and require more trees to be cut down. The fact is, however, that the science is unsettled as to whether paper, plastic, or reusable bags emit more greenhouse gases. But even if plastic bags emit less greenhouse gases, this completely misses the point. The choice of paper or plastic at checkout stands has a marginally small difference compared to the overall problem of global warming. On the other hand, the choice of paper or plastic can make a huge difference for ocean pollution. Regardless, the best option is to reduce both plastic and paper bag use. The Northwest Grocers Association wants the inclusion of a five-cent charge on paper bags with the plastic bag ban. Environment Oregon supports such a charge. In Washington, D.C., a 5-cent fee on both plastic and paper bags reduced bag consumption 85% and raised $150,000 for river cleanup
