Carrier Bag Levy Consultation - The Department have taken the decision to consult on changes to The Single Use Carrier Bags Charge Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2013 in order to build and enhance the existing legislation, while also continuing with their programme of continuous improvement within our local environment. The department are determined to build on the excellent work by our Citizens in already delivering some reductions in the use of carrier bags across Northern Ireland. However, we must and can do more and in promoting and encouraging the reuse of all carrier bags, we remind citizens to ‘bring their own bag’, thus improving sustainability and saving our natural resources.
The current legislation was introduced in 2013 and has proved effective in reducing the use of carrier bags across Northern Ireland by 73.2% when compared to the baseline figure of 300 million bags in 2012. Ongoing market scanning coupled with published DAERA validated statistics clearly show a significant increase in the purchase of thicker heavier carrier bags, the level of which suggests that these are now the new ‘throw away’ bag which are not being reused as originally intended. Carrier bags need to be reused in order to reduce their environmental impact and we must continue to work hard to deliver a cleaner and greener Northern Ireland which is a better place to live and do business.
The department have taken the decision to consult on changes to The Single Use Carrier Bags Charge Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2013 in order to continue a programme of continuous improvement within our local environment. The department are determined to build on the excellent work by our citizens in reducing the use of carrier bags, in encouraging reuse of carrier bags, and in reminding citizens to ‘bring their own bag’; thus improving sustainability and saving our natural resources.
The Carrier Bag Levy in NI has already delivered a “Small Charge, Big Change” but further change is required and your views are key. This can be done by following the 'Respond online' link below, and completing the relevant section or sections in the areas provided.
The consultation is also available on NI Direct