Survey shows 66% Scots would support single-use plastic charge

A survey by YouGov has revealed that 66% of Scots would support introducing charges on single-use plastic to cut reduce usage.

The poll was conducted for non-governmental organisation Zero Waste Scotland. It also showed that 89% of those backing an additional charge supported the move to reduce harm to the marine environment.

Additionally, 87% supported the move to reduce litter and 81% cited stopping/reducing climate change as the reason.

Zero Waste Scotland chief executive Iain Gulland said: “It is clear from these results that people are worried about the impact single-use plastic items have on our environment. These items can last for decades and the damage they can cause to wildlife is shocking.

“We have to find ways to cut down the stream of items we are sending into what should be pristine habitats and the consultation offers a valuable way for people to contribute to the discussion around market restrictions.”

The survey also sought respondents’ opinion on introducing a new legislation to restrict the supply of single-use plastic items such as plates, plastic straws, balloon sticks and cutlery, beverage stirrers and more.

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The EU Single Plastics Directive identifies these products as the major contributors of litter found in the marine environment.

Marine Conservation Society Scotland conservation officer Catherine Gemmell said: “It’s encouraging to see so many people in this survey link the single-use plastic issue to the negative impact it has on Scottish seas and wildlife.

“Now, we’re asking them to go one step further and respond to the Scottish Government consultation and add their support for banning several single-use plastic items.

“We hope the Scottish Government will take swift action and bring in further measures to move Scotland towards a circular economy where nothing is wasted or thrown away, negatively impacting our seas and beaches.”

In August this year, the UK Government decided to double the price of single-use plastic carrier bags to 10p from April next year.