ACS has welcomed reports of plans to extend the singe use carrier bag charge to all stores in England.
The carrier bag charging scheme was introduced in 2015 in England after the successful introduction of universal schemes in Wales and Scotland. In England however, only businesses with more than 250 employees are included in the legislation.
ACS research shows that over a third of retailers in England have already introduced a voluntary carrier bag charging scheme to help reduce the number of bags they give to customers.
Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman said: “The 5p carrier bag charge is an effective way of significantly reducing the number of bags in circulation whilst also providing retailers with a way of raising money for local charities. We have long campaigned for the charge to be extended to all retailers in England, as is already the case in Scotland and Wales, and would welcome steps to make the charge universal.”
The Prime Minister is due to make a speech outlining measures to help the environment tomorrow (Thursday), where more details will be available.
