The Scottish Government has today published its analysis of the public consultation on a proposed minimum charge for single-use disposable beverage cups, following 1,068 responses submitted between August and November 2024. The move is aimed at reducing waste, carbon emissions, and litter across Scotland.
Over 800 individuals and 250 business respondents shared their views, with no clear consensus emerging on the appropriate charge level, scope, or exemptions. Concerns included fairness, potential costs for consumers and small businesses, and uncertainties around enforcement and operational details.
While many respondents supported a 20p charge, others proposed alternative levels or tiered pricing. There was also debate about which circumstances the charge should apply to, such as takeaway drinks, charity-branded cups, or those provided as part of event admissions. Respondents were split on how the net proceeds of the charge should be used, with suggestions ranging from environmental initiatives to support for low-income groups. Businesses also raised practical concerns about who would be responsible for compliance and how enforcement would work in practice. Limited data on litter reduction and consumer behaviour made it harder to assess the likely effectiveness of the charge.
The Scottish Government has committed to reviewing these issues in partnership with the Single-Use Disposable Cups Charge Advisory Group, as part of its broader strategy to reduce single-use waste. The Circular Economy (Scotland) Act 2024 gives ministers the authority to introduce regulations for a minimum charge. A strategic regulatory impact assessment is being prepared, covering environmental, economic, and equality impacts. Further engagement is planned to refine key policy elements such as exemptions and how proceeds will be used. If the charge is legally classified as a tax, it will require approval by the Scottish Parliament under the super-affirmative procedure. Otherwise, ministers may proceed directly via secondary legislation.
Scotland uses an estimated 388 million single-use cups annually, generating around 5,400 tonnes of waste. The proposed charge is intended to shift consumer behaviour away from single-use products and toward more sustainable options. Environmental groups have welcomed the proposal but warned that unresolved policy design issues could delay progress or weaken the scheme’s effectiveness.
The consultation shows significant public interest in the issue but also underscores the complexity of introducing a new national charge. With further analysis and stakeholder engagement under way, Scotland is moving closer to becoming one of the first countries in Europe to mandate a charge on disposable cups.
