Advocate Sarah Chen argues that plastic bag bans effectively reduce plastic pollution. Critics counter that consumers simply switch to other single-use bags, but Chen maintains that overall plastic consumption decreases when bans are implemented.
Which evidence would best support Chen's position against the critics?
After California's bag ban, total plastic bag waste (including alternatives) decreased by 72%
Many consumers now bring reusable bags to stores
Plastic bag bans are popular with environmental groups
Some retailers offer discounts for bringing reusable bags
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This directly addresses critics by showing TOTAL bag waste (including alternatives) still dropped.
- Context clues: Critics claim substitution negates the benefit.
- Evidence evaluation: 72% reduction in total bags proves substitution didn't offset gains.
- Verify: This counters the specific critique Chen faces.
💡 Strategy: When addressing critics, choose evidence that directly answers their objection.
Choice B is incorrect because "many" is vague and doesn't quantify overall reduction. Choice C is incorrect because popularity with groups doesn't measure effectiveness. Choice D is incorrect because retailer discounts exist but don't prove pollution reduction.