From Monday, 5 October, shoppers in England will be charged 5 pence for single-use plastic bags, as part of a government effort to reduce litter and protect wildlife. The charge will be applied in large shops and supermarkets with 250 or more employees. The government reportedly expects the charge to reduce the use of plastic bags in supermarkets by up to 80% and up to 50% in high street shops. It also expects to save £60 million in litter clean-up costs.
So don’t forget to bring your BRAG bag (and other reusable bags, of course) when you’re out shopping! You’ll save money while helping safeguard the environment.