Zero Waste Scotland launches scheme to recognise retailers who donate carrier bag levy to charities
Scottish retailers have been urged to donate the proceeds from carrier bag charges to charity.
From October 20, businesses will be required to charge 5p for bags. And shop owners are being asked to give the cash to good causes.
The Scottish Government has urged retailers to donate the extra money, but they are under no obligation.
To encourage them, Zero Waste Scotland has launched its carrier bag commitment to recognise those who donate.
I urge all retailers to consider signing up to the commitment - it's quick, easy, transparent, and provides great publicity for your business and the good causes you choose to support.
The government-funded body has already secured the support of the Scottish Seabird Centre, McDonald's, Marks and Spencer, the Co-operative Group, Holland and Barrett, Scotmid and RS Components.
Iain Gulland, director of Zero Waste Scotland, said: "I urge all retailers in Scotland to consider signing up to the commitment - it's quick, easy, transparent, and provides great publicity for your business and the good causes you choose to support.
"Zero Waste Scotland backs the carrier bag charge as a means to reduce the number of single-use bags in circulation, which often end up as litter in our streets or seas.
"We are rolling out a programme of support to Scottish retailers over the summer and beyond to help them understand the proposed carrier bag regulations, and to make the necessary changes in their business."
Environment secretary Richard Lochhead said: "Introducing a carrier bag charge is landmark legislation that highlights just how serious Scotland is about tackling litter and reducing waste.
"At the moment Scots use more carrier bags per person than in any other part of the UK. The charge is aiming to reverse this trend, creating a cleaner, greener environment for everyone to enjoy.
"We want to see as many retailers as possible sign up to the carrier bag commitment, which will see good causes around the country benefit from the funds generated when the charge comes in on October 20."
