Acting Net Zero Secretary comments ahead of the tenth
anniversary of the single use carrier bag charge in Scotland.
The law on charging for new single use carrier bags in Scotland
came into effect on 20 October 2014.
Acting Net Zero Secretary said:
“The tenth anniversary of the introduction of the single use
carrier bag charge is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on
how small changes in our behaviour can make a significant
difference – and commit to the action we need to see over the
coming years to make even greater progress in protecting the
environment and moving towards a more circular economy.
“Single use bags can litter our neighbourhoods, cause harm to
animals and pollute our natural environment. Environmental
charges can be an effective tool to change people's behaviour,
encourage responsible consumption and reuse, and reduce the harm
plastic and other litter can have on the environment.
“The charge on single use carrier bags has provided consistency
for consumers and businesses and driven forward sustainable
behaviours – with research published earlier this year showing an
80% drop in plastic bags found on beaches across the UK in the
past 10 years.
“Data from Zero Waste Scotland also shows that 84% of people in
Scotland are now always or mostly taking their own bags to the
shops, playing a crucial role in increasing reuse and reducing
waste and litter.
“This is an example of positive action from the government, in
partnership with businesses and consumers which is delivering
change and by working together over the next decade and beyond we
can do even more to encourage responsible consumption and protect
our environment.”