It should be noted that early American Indian tribes had clearly defined and enforced property rights to sections of many rivers. Over time, state governments nullified those rights. Since, free markets require well defined and enforced property rights, the solution to environmental problems lies in extending capitalism not restricting it. MBE has little in common with this approach. First an outcome, i.e., level of effluent emissions, the amount of recycled paper used in grocery bags, etc., is deemed to be a desirable goal by government authorities.
Individual behavior is seen as something to be manipulated to achieve the goal.
MBE policies are meant to control markets and therefore individual decision making, thwarting the outcomes of free market activity. No concern for individual rights is expressed. Typically, these policies ignore science and economics to promote the political agenda or aesthetic values of policy makers and interest groups. The government would issue permits to newsprint companies allowing them to use a maximum level of non-recycled materials in their paper. Companies could sell their permits if they increase the recycled content of their paper.