'Behind the times' - What readers said about Government's plans to increase plastic bag charge

First introduced in 2015, the charge has led to around 15 billion less bags being in circulation.

From April 2021, the single-use carrier bag charge will also be extended to all retailers. Small businesses were previously exempt.

Many readers welcomed the change, arguing that the production of single-use bags should stop in a bid to cut the country’s plastic waste.

Some also called on supermarkets to reduce the amount of plastic packaging used on products

This is what you said:

Lesley Corrigan: “It’ll prompt your memory to bring your bag. I think shops should just stop having bags altogether! Maybe just provide salvaged cardboard boxes for people who are desperately forgetful.”

Martin Julie Smith: “Do away with the needless over-packaging of items which creates a bigger problem. Everything you buy is in plastic why on earth would you pack items so you need to unpack them with scissors or a knife?”

Sheila Jacqueline Sly: “Just stop producing plastic bags full stop. We don't need them. Just take your own bags to the shops. France did this about 10 years ago. Why are we so behind the times?”

Donna Crawford: “It's because fining the customer doesn't bring about change. Try fining the supermarket for each plastic bag and let's see how quickly they come up with a better alternative.”

Lawrence King: “One way to reduce plastic bag waste … don’t produce them. That way people will reuse old ones or buy alternatives.”

Vince Olsen: “The price hike is fair enough to help reduce plastic waste. But when every other item that’s in the bag is wrapped in un-recyclable plastic [it] doesn’t really make much sense.”

Andrea Charles: “Why don't they supply biodegradable bags like they do abroad?”

David Coates: “Should charge £1 in my opinion. Needs to deter people from buying then just dumping them.”

Jan L'Argent: “Haven't bought a plastic bag for years. Always take my own and carry a couple of folding carriers in my handbag just in case.”

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