Money Grabs

via JT, I learn that more states are adding deposits to plastic bottles of water:

"States are looking at this as a money grab,' said American Beverage Association spokesman Craig Stevens. "What we support is comprehensive curbside recycling." The expansion of bottle bills increases difficulty for convenience stores dealing with returns and storage, says Jeff Lenard, spokesman for the National Association of Convenience Stores."

Who loses? Manufacturers and retailers who sell less. (Curbside recycling costs them nothing.)

Who wins? The environment (a little -- depending if "indulgences" lead to more or less consumption/litter) and those who collect bottles for return. Judging by the scavengers who hit our recycling bin 3-4x before the truck arrives, I'd say that poor people benefit. The states also benefit from uncollected deposits.

What about consumers? They pay more, but they pay a 5 cents/bottle indulgence that allows them to consume and toss without guilt.

Bottom Line: Nothing is as easy as it looks.