Study: Britons should pay 'green taxes'

A British environmental think tank says people who recycle waste and save energy and water should be taxed less than others.

The proposals, published in a report commissioned by the Green Alliance, are aimed at discouraging people from leading environmentally damaging lifestyles, The Guardian reported Wednesday.

The report outlines inefficient environmental waste as using polluting or wasteful products, including disposable batteries, single-use cameras, garden sprinklers and traditional incandescent light bulbs. Its list of efficient environmental measures includes installing cavity wall and loft insulation and using energy efficient light bulbs.

The report was based on research conducted by the Institute of Policy Studies that warns consumers are currently "locked in" to wasteful and environmentally damaging behavior patterns and need financial motivation to change their lifestyles, The Guardian said.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International