Abolishing the plastic bag tax: what does it mean for you?

Reason for abolishing the tax

On May 1, 2020, the plastic bag tax was introduced in Sweden with the aim of reducing the consumption of plastic carrier bags (plastic bags) and to discourage littering. The Swedish government has now decided to abolish the tax on plastic carrier bags, a decision that will enter into force on November 1, 2024.

The background to this decision is a decrease in the consumption of plastic carrier bags in Sweden in recent years. According to figures from the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, consumption has fallen from 83 bags per person and year in 2017 to only 17 bags last year. This is well below the EU target of a maximum of 40 plastic carrier bags per person per year.

While the tax has had a significant effect on reducing the use of plastic bags, it remains to be seen how consumption patterns will change once the tax is abolished.

Which bags have been taxed in the past?

The plastic bag tax includes all plastic bags with handles, such as shopping bags and smaller plastic bags. Exemptions from taxation apply to plastic reusable bags, plastic e-commerce bags and garbage bags.

When does the tax stop applying?

Plastic bags placed on the Swedish market after November 1, 2024 will not be taxed.

How Swedes feel about the plastic bag tax

35% of Swedes think that plastic bags are an environmental problem and more than half of Swedes, 51%, think it is important that we reduce their use.

There is an even split between positive and negative attitudes to the introduction of the plastic bag tax.

What are other countries doing?

Many countries have bans or taxes on plastic bags to reduce their environmental impact. This has led to a significant reduction in plastic bag consumption in these countries and has inspired others to follow suit.

Here are some examples of countries that have introduced restrictions on plastic bags:

• Kenya: In 2017, Kenya introduced one of the strictest bans on plastic bags in the world.
• Rwanda: Rwanda introduced a total ban on plastic bags in 2008.
• Bangladesh: Bangladesh introduced a ban on thin plastic bags in 2002.
• France: France started introducing gradual measures against plastic bags from 2016, including a tax and a ban on certain types of plastic products.
• Italy: Italy introduced a tax on thin plastic bags in 2011.
• United Kingdom: The UK introduced a tax on plastic bags in 2015.
• Taiwan: Taiwan introduced a ban on thin plastic bags in 2002.
• Morocco: Morocco introduced a ban on the import, purchase and use of plastic bags in 2016.
• Germany: Germany has introduced a national packaging law that requires the recycling and reduction of plastic bags. Exact dates for local bans or taxes vary.
• Australia: Different states in Australia have introduced different restrictions, but many have introduced fees or bans in recent years.

The plastic bag – good or bad?

With the repeal of the plastic bag tax, the plastic bag is back in focus. Plastic bags are lightweight, durable, cost-effective and the lowest carbon emitting bag. Reducing the negative impacts of plastic bags requires increased recycling and informed choices by companies using carrier bags, as well as consumers. It is important to weigh up the pros and cons when discussing plastic bags and their role in a more sustainable society. Ask us for advice on the best bag for your business.

Source: Naturvårdsverket
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