Single-Use Carrier Bags Set to Decrease by 70-80% in Small and Medium Businesses
- Single-use carrier bag charge doubles from 5p to 10p starting May 21st
- Expected decrease of 70-80% in single-use carrier bags usage in small and medium businesses
- Average person now buys only 4 single-use carrier bags a year from supermarkets compared to 140 in 2014
- 95% public support for the charge
- £150m donated to charity, volunteering, and health sectors since its introduction
The single-use carrier bag charge is set to double from 5p to 10p and be extended to all businesses in England starting May 21st. Since its introduction in 2015, the charge has led to a 95% reduction in plastic bag sales in supermarkets, with the average person now purchasing only four single-use carrier bags a year from supermarkets compared to 140 in 2014, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The extension is expected to decrease single-use carrier bag usage by 70-80% in small and medium-sized businesses. The charge is supported by 95% of the public, who acknowledge its environmental benefits. Environment minister Rebecca Pow urges all retailers to prepare for the changes as they work towards a greener future. Association of Convenience Stores CEO James Lowman welcomes the inclusion of local shops and small businesses into the scheme, stating it helps both the environment and allows retailers to raise money for charity.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information about the increase in the single-use carrier bag charge, its impact on plastic bag sales, and the extension of the charge to all businesses in England. It also includes quotes from relevant sources and mentions the benefits of the charge such as environmental improvements and charity donations.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the extension of the single-use carrier bag charge in England and its positive impact on reducing plastic bag usage. It also mentions the support from the public and small businesses. The article includes statistics and benefits such as donations to charity. However, it lacks a deep analysis or exploration of long-term trends or consequences.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The extension of the single-use carrier bag charge to all businesses in England may impact small and medium-sized retailers’ sales and profit margins, as it is expected to decrease their single-use carrier bag sales by 70-80%.
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses a financial change that affects retailers’ sales and profitability due to the increase in the single-use carrier bag charge, which may impact their revenue and potentially force them to adapt their business strategies.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no mention of an extreme event in the last 48 hours.
www.retailsector.co.uk