Design

The environment and rural development committee – Scotland’s authority on environmental issues – has decided not to recommend acceptance of the proposed tax on plastic bags.

According to committee convener, Sarah Boyack, MSP, the conclusion was reached that a levy on plastic bags “cannot achieve the clear environmental benefits that the committee would like”.

The decision has been welcomed by producers and suppliers of plastic bags.

Research commissioned by PIFA has cast doubt on the success of the Irish plastic bag tax. The figures, independently collated and analysed, show that, during 2005, the number of bags imported increased by 20 per cent.