ACS welcomes plastic bag charge increase

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The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has welcomed the increase in charges for plastic bags and the extension of the charging scheme to all businesses.

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From 21 May in England the minimum charge for plastic bags will increase from 5p to 10p and will apply to all businesses, regardless of size.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “We strongly welcome the inclusion of local shops and small businesses into the successful plastic bag charging scheme, which not only helps the environment but is also a great way for retailers to raise money for local and national charities.”

DEFRA figures show that thanks to the charging scheme the average person in England now buys just four single use carrier bags a year, compared with 140 in 2014.

The Government believes that extending the charge to all retailers  will cut the use of single-use bags by 70% to 80% in small-medium sized businesses.

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said: “Over the next couple of weeks I urge retailers of all sizes to make sure they are ready for the changes, as we work together to build back greener and strengthen our world-leading action to combat the scourge of plastic waste.”