Experts are now examining options for biodegradable bags to replace the existing single-use plastic bags, which are produced primarily of fossil-fuel-derived polyethylene.
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With finances becoming increasingly tighter on our pockets the charge will soon add up and make a difference.
More than a fifth of under-35s will “suck up” the new 5p plastic bag charges in England while the over-55s are more prepared to use their own bags.
“It will be interesting to see how numerous 8.5 billion plastic bags used annually we can cut out of our lives with the new 5p charge”.
Small retailers are not obliged to charge but can do so on a voluntary basis.
Morrisons Group Corporate Services Director, Martyn Jones said: “This is a big change for customers and we are working hard to make our shoppers aware of the charge and provide them with a choice of reusable bags”.
About 7.6bn plastic bags were given out in the United Kingdom last year, or 140 bags per person, and the number has risen for five years running.
That’s the equivalent to 61,000 tonnes in total. Are you happy to pay for carrier bags, will the law encourage you to reuse your own?
There are exemptions for shops in airports and on trains, but not for bio-degradable bags, prompting criticism from environmental campaigners.
Adding to the confusion, Defra has also exempted certain products, including unwrapped food, raw meat and fish, prescription medicine, uncovered blades, flowers, live fish and “unwrapped food”, which entitle shoppers to receive a free plastic bag. Need not to worry you won’t be charged for the plastic bag these items are placed in. It can be a source of reassurance for shoppers that money they pay for carrier bags will be going to worthy causes, many of which will bring a direct benefit to them and their neighbourhoods.
The average household has around 40 bags scattered around the home – millions remain unused.
In Scotland, Boots has been giving money from charges to Macmillan Cancer Support.
The vast majority of people do not realise that supermarkets and retailers have the power to keep as much of the money raised from the 5p charge on carrier bags as they like, the YouGov poll shows. This applies to supermarkets as well as online delivery companies.
Tesco has alerted its customers that unless you choose bagless delivery there will be a 40p flat charge for home shopping.
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“Evidence suggests that the introduction of a plastic bag charge in England will not only lead to a significant reduction in carrier bags being issued, but it will do a huge amount to help charities carry out their important work”. Get involved in our conversation on our Facebook page and tweet us your opinions.
