23/08/2019

5p Bag Levy Sees Distribution Fall By Almost 70%

The amount of carrier bags distributed in Northern Ireland has fallen by almost 70% since the 5p levy was introduced, official figures have revealed.

Over five million fewer bags were dispensed by retailers last year, a 5.4% reduction on the previous year.

Data released by the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) highlighted that 68.8% less bags have been sold since April 2013, when the 5p levy was introduced.

The 5.4% decrease in the last year has been attributed to a 22.9% decrease in the amount of lower rate bags dispensed.

The minimum 5p charge applies to carrier bags sold at all retailers in Northern Ireland under legislation aimed at reducing their use. The proceeds of the levy were totalled at £4.6 million last year.

Considerable progress has been made on the issue since 2012/13, with the amount of bags distributed falling from around 300 million to 93.5 million.



(JG/CM)

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