All UK businesses to increase carrier bag charge to reduce plastic waste

All businesses across the UK will increase their carrier bag charges with the aim of reducing plastic waste.

The government has today announced that carrier bag charges will be increased from 5p to 10p and extended to all businesses in England from 21 May, in a bid to help drive down sales further.

By extending the charge to all retailers, it is expected that the use of single-use carrier bags will decrease by 70-80 per cent in small and medium-sized businesses.

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow commented: “The introduction of the 5p charge has been a phenomenal success, driving down sales of harmful plastic bags in supermarkets by a remarkable 95 per cent.

“We know we must go further to protect our natural environment and oceans, which is why we are now extending this charge to all businesses.

“Over the next couple of weeks I urge all 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.”