Recently the government have proposed new levies on coffee cups and we say it is about time!
The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Richard Bruton, has confirmed the introduction of the measures.
Mr Bruton said the measures were aimed at encouraging more "sustainable behaviour" and were a key part of the Government's Climate Action Plan.
Although still in talks on the specifics, the levy on a paper cup is likely to be 10c, 15c or 25c, according to the department.
Speaking about the paper cup and plastic bag levies, Minister Bruton said:
"How we use and dispose of our resources is crucial. In fact, it accounts for 60% of our emissions. We must be more conscious of the impact we are having by the daily choices we make. Sustainable alternatives exist for all the items we are purposing to levy and the purpose is to shift behaviour towards the use of these alternatives."
He also said:
"The coffee cup levy should also lead to savings for consumers who make the switch, as well as savings for retailers who have to carry less disposable stock.
"In introducing a coffee cup levy, clear pricing information will be vital. Clear information regarding price will be important in driving change. We will call on shops to display pricing information so that their customers have full information."
We at Family Friendly HQ think it is about time this was put into place. Remember when the government first put a levy on plastic bags and we wondered how we would ever cope? Well, now it is time to get yourself a keep cup and make the small move that will benefit the environment tenfold.
What an example this will set for our children and for their children after.
There is no reason why we can’t all have a reusable cup in our handbag, our car or even our office and put an end to paper or plastic cups altogether.
We wholeheartedly welcome the new proposed levy and are proud our government are taking such a prominent stand against climate change.
