ACS

Gordon Brown has written an article for the Daily Mail supporting their ‘Banish the Bag’ campaign.

In the article he talks about the Defra Industry ambition of reducing the impact of carrier bags by 25% by the end of the year, highlighting a need to move faster and further.

Brown believes that the time is right for the Government to step in and take action. He said: “I am convinced we need to act – and the time to act is now. I have already made clear that over time we should aim to eliminate the single-use plastic bag altogether.

“And I want to make clear that if Government compulsion is needed to make the change, we will take the necessary steps. We do not take such steps lightly – but the damage that single-use plastic bags inflict on the environment is such that strong action must be taken.

“The important thing is to come up with a scheme that will be of most benefit, most quickly – and ideally at the same time secure funds for organisations that help protect our environment. “
The Government are plan to issue a carrier bag policy in the next few months, this won’t be a ban but it’s possible that they may introduce a tax on single use carrier bags.

James Lowman, ACS’ Chief Executive said: “We are strongly committed to reducing the amount of carrier bag usage and waste in the UK. We are supporters of the Industry/ DEFRA agreement on reducing the environmental impact of carrier bags and open to any discussion on how we can take this further.

“Local shops are leading the way with countless examples of innovative community based solutions to the problem. ACS is also providing advice, support and resources to retailers to bring in voluntary measures that will make a difference in their local area.

“We are open to discussion on the introduction of a levy, but would be keen to understand how a tax would be brought in and the likely effects this would have on small businesses.

“We look forward to discussions on how we can accelerate our ambition to reduce the amount of bags customers use.”