27/08/2014

Carrier Bag Use Drops 72%

Newly published figures reveal a drop of 215 million single use carrier bags in the first year of the 5p levy, a reduction of 72%.

Welcoming the news, Environment Minister, Mark H Durkan, said: "The response from shoppers has been very positive and retailers have also risen to the challenge. The result has been a very significant reduction in single use carrier bags.

"During the past year, I have ensured that money from the bag levy has gone back into the community through environmental projects. I have visited many of these projects and have been inspired by the great work being done.

"I am delighted to announce that £2.5million of this year's levy receipts will be available to support community projects. The community pays the levy and I will ensure that the community gets the benefit of the levy."

(MH/CD)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

23 February 2024
One Year On Since Attempted Murder Of DCI John Caldwell
The PSNI will "continue to relentlessly pursue those responsible" for the attempted murder of Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher has said as he marked the first anniversary of the gun attack.
19 August 2021
30% Fewer Disposable Carrier Bags Given Out In The Last Year
The number of plastic, disposable, carrier bags given out by retailers in the last year fell by more than 30%, with 24.3 million fewer bags dispensed. The 8th annual Carrier Bag Levy statistics for Northern Ireland showed that in 2020/21 shows that 56.
11 March 2024
Renewed Appeal On 1994 Murder Of Constable John Haggan
Detectives from the PSNI's Legacy Investigation Branch have issued a fresh appeal for information on the 30th anniversary of the murder of Constable John Haggan on 10 March 1994.
12 December 2013
£2.2m Carrier Bag Levy To Fund Community Projects
£2.2m of carrier bag levy money is to be spent on funding for communities and organisations to develop environmental projects across Northern Ireland. Some £1m had initially been set aside; however due to the "overwhelming response" the figure has more than doubled. In total, 251 projects have successfully bid for granted funding.
26 March 2024
15-Year-Old Arrested Following Stabbing In Lisburn
A 15-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the stabbing of a 14-year-old in the Knockmore Road area of Lisburn last night, Monday 25th March. Police have said that at approximately 7.40pm on Monday 25 March, a 14-year-old boy had been approached by a group of teenagers, before being stabbed in the lower back.