As was widely expected, the Scottish Government has launched a public consultation on a minimum charge for single-use cups, with a 25p levy proposed.
The so-called ‘latte levy’ would apply to all single-use cups, regardless of material, and wouldn’t be restricted to hot drink containers. Exemptions would apply for specific locations and uses, like schools. Free drinks in hospital or care settings would be excluded.
Similar schemes already exist in Europe. The Netherlands introduced a guideline charge of 25 cents on plastic, single-use cups in 2023. Ireland passed similar legislation in 2022 – although it has yet to come into force.
Under consultation proposals, retailers would be able to retain reasonable implementation costs from the charge – mirroring the approach taken for single-use carrier bags. It also seeks views on whether the proceeds should be kept by businesses and used for good causes or collected by local or national government.
The SGF is currently collating the views of retailers about the charge to inform its response to the consultation.
The consultation runs until 14 November and the SGF survey closes on 1 September.
