Zero Waste Scotland launches carrier bag commitment for retailers

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A carrier bag commitment for Scottish retailers has been launched by Zero Waste Scotland.

From 20 October 2014, the Scottish Government will require all retailers to charge a minimum of 5p for every single-use carrier bag.

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Companies including McDonalds, Marks and Spencer, The Cooperative Group, Holland and Barrett, Scotmid and RS Components have committed to donating the proceeds from the charge to good causes in Scotland. This may include environmental causes, and they have also committed to reporting on how many bags they’ve sold and how the money has been used.

The Scottish Seabird Centre and Scottish Grocers’ Federation have also signed up to the commitment.

Zero Waste Scotland director Iain Gulland said: “Zero Waste Scotland backs the carrier bag charge as a means to reduce the number of single-use bags in circulation, which often end up as litter in our streets or seas. We are rolling out a programme of support to Scottish retailers over the summer and beyond to help them understand the proposed carrier bag regulations, and to make the necessary changes in their business. Any retailer with any questions should visit our dedicated website www.carrierbagchargescotland.org.uk or contact us directly.”