Scotland has it in the bag

This month has brought the very welcome news that the carrier bag fee in Scotland has been a resounding success since it was introduced a year ago.

Retailer research has shown that the use of the single use carrier bag in Scotland has dropped by 650 million since the 5p charge began. This relatively swift move in behaviour goes to show that changes in government policy really can make a difference to public attitudes.

Data from all the major grocery retailers indicate a reduction in bag use of around 80 per cent since 20 October 2014 – which is the equivalent to at least 650 million fewer bags being handed out annually - with funds of around £6.7 million being donated to good causes directly from the charge.

In previous years, statistics showed that people in Scotland used more than 800 million new single-use carrier bags every single year – more per head than anywhere else in the UK.

To see a turnaround in this behaviour by the introduction of this simple policy is something to be marvelled at. It shows that people in Scotland are serious about tackling litter, reducing waste, and creating a cleaner, greener environment that everyone can enjoy.

It is now becoming second nature for shoppers to reuse their carrier bags and to purchase bags made of stronger materials, for the purpose of multi usage over their lifetime. It is vital that we think about our impact on the environment, and this can be as simple as re-using a plastic bag.

Zero Waste Scotland is an organisation funded by the Scottish Government to support the delivery of its Zero Waste Plan and pursue low carbon and resource efficiency policies – such as reducing waste, increasing energy efficiency and promoting responsible water use.

Iain Gulland, chief executive at Zero Waste Scotland, also noted that the change in behaviour has signalled a positive change in consumer habits across Scotland.

He added:

“Many organisations have already agreed to donate money raised by the 5p charge to good causes, by signing up to Scotland’s Carrier Bag Commitment. Other retailers across the country are now being urged to follow suit.”

Many nationwide retailers have also used the money generated for good causes - which is another fantastic result of the scheme.

Those that signed up to Scotland’s Carrier Bag Commitment – an agreement to disclose information on the charge and donations made – have reported that various charities up and down the country have benefited from funds raised by the charge, amounting to at least £6.7 million being donated to good causes.

Morrisons in Scotland have reported that the charge has generated around £700,000 across their stores, which has gone to the Morrisons Foundation to donate to charities across Scotland.

Asda in Scotland have invested over £700,000 in good causes, and The Co-operative in Scotland has pledged more than £750,000 to be redistributed across 1000 community groups, projects and good causes benefitting from grants of £200-£2500.

Boots in Scotland have stated that the funds generated have gone to Macmillan Cancer Support, and from 5 October their proceeds are going to the BBC Children in Need appeal.

The single use carrier bag fee has made a significant impact in Scotland by reducing waste and generating money for good causes. It is just one example of how a small change can make a big difference and should inspire us all.