States and cities consider soda taxes

Not a bad idea at all - Great source of revenue on a product extremely unhealthy, extremely low-priced, and highly consumed.

Article in the NEJM

Wall Street Journal article

Interesting Myth / Fact piece from a councilor in the Dist of Columbia

New York Times article

CDC director suggests soda tax

Of course, many folks have been raised to fear this word tax, so, instead we could have the healthy communities fund, supported with each purchase of a soda and sugar drink. Consider - while it is great to enjoy a soda, you also help fund our healthy riverwalk and bicycle lanes, you help build park space in those large and excessively obvious gaps in the city where there are no neighborhood parks. You help to fund a seriously undervalued and under-utilized public health department.

Of course things like this are sometimes difficult on a local level, and may make real sense at the state level. I don't have time to explore this further, but an interesting read and revenue source to debate.

Posted in: Health,Our City,sustainability