UK Plastic Bag Charges vs Other Country Schemes
Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.
UK shopping context, 2026 onward.
International comparisons, plastic policy research, environmental writing.
| Aspect | UK Plastic Bag Charges | Other Country Schemes |
|---|---|---|
| England | 10p (since 2021) | — |
| Scotland | 5p | — |
| Wales | 5p (first in UK, 2011) | — |
| Northern Ireland | 25p | — |
| Ireland | 22 cents (levy introduced 2002 at 15 cents; 22 cents since 2007) | — |
| Kenya | Total ban + criminal penalties | — |
| South Korea | Single-use ban; bring-your-own-bag culture | — |
Frequently asked
Does the bag charge actually reduce use?
Yes substantially. England saw a reduction of over 95% in single-use bag use within 6 years of the 2015 5p charge. The 2021 increase to 10p continued the decline. Total environmental benefit is measurable in tonnes of plastic prevented per year.
Where does the money go?
In England, large retailers must report on what they do with net proceeds, and are encouraged to donate them to good causes (mostly environmental). Scotland and Wales have similar voluntary arrangements. In Ireland, the levy goes to the Environment Fund. In the UK the money is kept by retailers rather than collected as tax.
Frequently asked questions
Does the bag charge actually reduce use?
Yes substantially. England saw a reduction of over 95% in single-use bag use within 6 years of the 2015 5p charge. The 2021 increase to 10p continued the decline. Total environmental benefit is measurable in tonnes of plastic prevented per year.
Where does the money go?
In England, large retailers must report on what they do with net proceeds, and are encouraged to donate them to good causes (mostly environmental). Scotland and Wales have similar voluntary arrangements. In Ireland, the levy goes to the Environment Fund. In the UK the money is kept by retailers rather than collected as tax.