The debate over the visibility of eco-fees diverts attention from the most important issue: fair, judiciously applied fees can serve as a catalyst for educating consumers and offering more environmentally friendly products. As part of a comprehensive product stewardship strategy, eco-fees can be a valuable tool to help increase responsible product disposal and recycling.
In the end, consumers pay the same amount, whether the charge is added at the point of sale or internalized in the purchase price. Instead of focusing on the public relations aspect of the debate, policymakers should explore implementation of an adjustable fee, based on sustainability. Eco-fees can then move beyond paying for disposal and recycling to influencing environmentally responsible decisions by both manufacturers and consumers.
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