Answer to Question #225419 in Economics for Ziya

Question

Briefly explain the enforceability criteria for evaluating environmental policy. Apply it to the Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act of 1999, South Africa

Answer 1

There is a natural tendency among people to think that enacting a law automatically leads to the rectification of the problem to which it is addressed.

Among the environmental community this tendency is depressingly strong.

Enforcement requires energy and resources. There will always be people whose interests lie in not having environmental policies enforced.

The Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act 12 of 1999 intends to amend the Tobacco Products Control Act, 1993, so as:

• to amend and insert certain definitions;
• to provide for the prohibition of advertising and promotion of tobacco products;
• to provide further, for the prohibition of advertising and promotion of tobacco products in relation to sponsored events;
• to prohibit the free distribution of tobacco products and the receipt of gifts or cash prizes in contests, lotteries or games to or by the purchaser of a tobacco product in consideration of such purchase;
• to provide for the prescription of maximum yields of tar, nicotine and other constituents in tobacco products;
• to increase fines; and
• to provide for matters connected therewith.