A city council is considering a proposal to ban single-use plastic bags, arguing that this will significantly reduce plastic pollution in local waterways. Which of the following, if true, would most effectively weaken the claim that the ban will significantly reduce plastic pollution in local waterways?
- AThe ban would require consumers to purchase reusable bags, which are often more expensive.
- BOther cities that implemented plastic bag bans saw a decrease in litter on streets.
- CA large percentage of plastic pollution in local waterways originates from industrial runoff and microplastics, not single-use bags.
- DPlastic shopping bags constitute only a small fraction of the total municipal solid waste stream.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. A large percentage of plastic pollution in local waterways originates from industrial runoff and microplastics, not single-use bags.
The argument assumes that single-use plastic bags are a significant source of local waterway pollution. Option A directly challenges this assumption by providing an alternative, larger source of pollution. If the primary source is industrial runoff and microplastics, then banning single-use bags will have a negligible impact on waterway pollution.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This highlights a consumer cost, but doesn't address the impact on waterway pollution.
- B. This strengthens the idea that bans reduce litter, but the claim specifically refers to *waterway pollution*, which can have different sources.
- D. While true, this refers to the overall municipal waste stream, not specifically local waterways, and doesn't provide a *larger alternative source* of waterway pollution as A does.
Challenging Problem-Solution Link
Challenging a problem-solution link involves demonstrating that the proposed solution does not effectively address the identified problem, often because the solution targets a minor cause or an irrelevant aspect of the problem.
- Focuses on the efficacy of a proposed remedy.
- Often involves identifying the true or primary cause of the problem.
- Shows the solution is misdirected or insufficient.
Memory trick: The arrow flies, but it's aimed at the wrong target.