Denbighshire shoppers are being urged to get on their marks to prepare for the introduction of the carrier bag charge. From 1 October 2011 there will be a minimum charge of 5p for every single-use carrier bag.
The typical shopper in the UK uses anything up to 720 carrier bags every year. The Welsh Government wants to drastically reduce the amount of single-use bags we use, which is why from October you’ll be charged for a bag wherever you shop.
You don’t have to pay a penny though. By remembering to take your shopping bag with you every time you shop you’ll avoid the charge and save valuable resources.
Each plastic bag can take up to 1,000 years to decompose, and may never break-down in landfill. Paper bags are not an environmentally friendly alternative; they are still a waste of natural resources.
Even starch based biodegradable and fully compostable bags use natural resources. If these are only used for one trip and not composted, these are a bigger waste of resources than conventional plastic carrier bags.
Waste Awareness Wales is supporting the introduction of the charge. Recycling Officer Andrew Osborne explains why:
“More than 8 out of 10 carrier bags are disposed of in landfill; many more end up as rubbish. We simply cannot continue wasting our valuable resources in this way.
“The introduction of the charge will help tackle climate change, reduce litter and protect wildlife and natural resources. It’s a great green step for Wales, and Waste Awareness Wales are proud to support it.
“We’re calling on shoppers to remember to pack their reusable bag whenever and wherever they shop, so that they avoid the charge and help protect Wales’ beautiful environment.”
For more information about the introduction of a minimum 5p charge for single-use carrier bags visit www.carrierbagchargewales.gov.uk
