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ARTICLE · 12 SEPTEMBER 2024

Charging For Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cups In Scotland Creeps Closer

Shepherd and Wedderburn
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The Scottish Government's consultation on a 25p single-use cup charge aims to reduce environmental waste by encouraging reusable alternatives. Stakeholders' feedback will shape the scheme, which mirrors successful plastic-bag charges.

United KingdomEnvironment
Natasha Durkin
Natasha Durkin
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The consultation

The Scottish Government's consultation on the introduction of a single-use beverage cup ("single-use cup") charge is now open. The consultation closes on 14 November 2024 and Scottish Government is very keen to hear from all stakeholders on the design of the scheme, the approach, and the level of the charge proposed.

The government has confirmed that consultation responses "will inform future decisions about our approach to the charge and how it will work in practice for consumers and businesses". Responses can be made here.

The proposed minimum charge is 25p per single-use cup, similar to charges of other schemes – for example, the charge in the Netherlands is 25 cents. Single-use cups made from biodegradable or compostable material will be included in the scheme and will be subject to the charge.

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