Arvostavina

Arvostavina is a tax implemented by the Estonian government to encourage people to litter less and maintain public cleanliness. It is a carry bag fee that aims to prevent the unnecessary use of plastic bags in the country.

Introduced in 2018, the arvostavina is a flat-fee levied on residents and visitors to Estonia who use plastic bags at checkout in stores and other businesses. The fee is approximately 0.02 euros per bag. The revenue generated from the tax is used to support cleanliness initiatives and waste management projects.

The arvostavina has been successful in reducing Estonia's reliance on plastic bags, with the country's plastic bag usage decreasing significantly since the tax was introduced. Additionally, the revenue generated from the tax has helped fund various initiatives aimed at promoting a cleaner environment and reducing waste.

The arvostavina tax does not apply to customers who bring their reusable bags, providing another incentive for citizens and visitors to switch to more eco-friendly practices. Certain items, such as fruit, vegetables, and other items often wrapped in multiple layers of plastic, are exempt from the tax.

While some critics have raised concerns about the effectiveness and fairness of the arvostavina, supporters of the tax argue it serves as a vital step in reducing Estonian citizens' impact on the environment. As with many environmental initiatives, ongoing efforts are made to monitor and adjust the program as needed to optimize its effectiveness in promoting a cleaner Estonia.