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<p>In October 2015, the Government introduced the mandatory minimum 5p charge for
single use carrier bags (SUCBs) in England on all large retailers to tackle the negative
impacts associated with their use on the environment, wildlife and society.</p><p>
</p><p>The policy has resulted in an 86% reduction in the usage of SUCBs by large
retailers. This represents approximately 15.6 billion fewer bags in circulation.</p><p>
</p><p>The Regulations require retailers with more than 250 staff to charge a minimum
of 5p and report data on their annual sales of SUCBs. Those retailers are encouraged
to donate the proceeds of the charge (after deducting VAT and other reasonable costs)
to good causes such as charities or community groups and to voluntarily report that
data. Our analysis shows that since the charge was introduced approximately £146 million
has been donated to a variety of good causes covering the arts, education, environment,
health, heritage and sports as well as local causes chosen by customers or staff.</p><p>
</p><p>The Government is currently consulting on extending the charge to all retailers
and increasing the minimum charge to 10p.</p>
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