25 Year Environment Plan: the 5p plastic carrier bag

‘The success of the 5p plastic bag charge in reducing the use of carrier bags by 83% shows the difference which government action can make, and demonstrates that protecting our environment is a job for each of us’[1] The Prime Minister

It wasn’t long ago that the 5p charge for plastic carrier bags was put in place. Four years ago to be exact. After the policy became effective we’d spend time trying to fit as much shopping into fewer bags to reduce the carrier bag charge. But fast forward to four years later, we’re all professional shoppers sporting our own larger, more sustainable bags for life. The next big bans to come to the UK could be plastic straws, cotton buds and stirrers. In the foreword from the Prime Minister’s 25 year Environment plan, she states the goals are simple ‘cleaner air and water; plants and animals which are thriving; and a cleaner, greener country for us all.’[1] There are many benefits for people to live in a green planet but what are some of those benefits?

The initial annoyance of forgetting said recycled bags for life and having to pay 5p per smaller less durable carrier bag is taken away when you realise that actually, you’re helping the environment, helping to clean the air, save the animals and rid the sea of plastic rubbish. It’s a win, win situation – you’re doing your best for the world and feeling good about yourself and the world is slowly becoming a nicer, healthier place to live.

It’s not new news that climate change is affecting where we live. Built environments are becoming hot, polluted and unattractive. However, by utilising Green Infrastructure, it can offer a solution to help mitigate these issues.

If people can accept the 5p carrier bag charge, can people get on board further to help the environment?

At Polypipe we’ve developed products to rekindle people with the outdoor space they’re missing. As cities become taller and more compact, there seems to be no space for trees. However, with products like ArborRaft Tree Root Protection and ArborRaft Tree Root Development, trees can be saved from destruction and new trees can be integrated into concentrated construction plans.

Our TreeBox HP is a product designed to support the tree and establish its growth to maturity. Trees with access to high volumes of soil live longer and that’s why the TreeBox HP comes with a large void filled with soil to allow for sustainable drainage or just tree growth.

In cities, there are numerous cars, lorry’s and heavy weight vehicles exposed to the ground. The 60 tonne load capacity on our Green Infrastructure products mean that those heavy weight items will not affect the space underground that’s meant for the trees.

At Polypipe we understand that nature is crucial to the health, happiness and wellbeing of people, that’s why we offer products that support the natural environment to support people.

[1] A Green Future: Our 25 Year Plan to Improve the Environment, 2018