The plastic bag levy has had a “huge positive impact” on charities around the UK, according to the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF).
Nearly £10 million has been distributed via CAF to charities by retailers like Aldi, Marks & Spencer and Sainsbury‘s since the 5p levy was introduced nationwide in October 2015.
Figures from the CAF released recently indicate that the levy raised at least £29 million in total for good causes in its first six months alone.
CAF head of corporate clients Klara Kozlov said the money raised would‘ve helped fund vital work that otherwise may not have been possible.
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“Not only has the introduction of the plastic bag levy benefitted the environment, but it has had a huge positive impact for charities,” she said.
“By working with CAF, using CAF company account charitable accounts and creating new strategic partnerships, retailers have maximised the opportunity to support national as well as local organisations.
“We hope they will continue to work together to develop these worthwhile relationships which benefit so many good causes.”
CAF helps people and businesses donate to good causes and has been working with several retailers to support them in donating the proceeds of the levy as well as providing advice and setting up grant programmes.
According to figures released last week by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, since the levy was introduced plastic bag usage across the UK has plummeted by six billion, with the biggest retailers experiencing an 85 per cent drop in usage.
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