I agree with Waste Management and Recycling Association of Singapore chairman Melissa Tan that consumers might be more motivated to take along their own containers if companies offered them rebates ("NEA to study impact of takeaway packages"; last Friday).

The money that the National Environment Agency is spending for its study on disposable containers could be used to incentivise companies to offer rebates to consumers.

Currently, most food sellers charge 20 cents for disposable containers; why not give a 20-cent discount to those who use their own containers?

Perhaps, we should study what Malaysia is doing. Perak and Johor are moving ahead with plans to ban the sale of polystyrene and plastic products in favour of reusable materials and biodegradable containers.

Will our Government do the same and act fast to reduce waste and protect the environment, regardless of the "practical challenges"?

Chua Siew Hong (Madam)