Tesco: Reusable bags grow in popularity

Consumers at Tesco stores have managed to use 40% less plastic bags in the past month compared with the corresponding period in 2006, it stated, following the introduction of Green Clubcard Points.

Tesco's legal and corporate affairs director Lucy Neville-Rolfe asserted that people are keen to help the environment in any way they can.

But she added that Tesco does not want to punish customers who forget their reusable bags from time to time so traditional carriers will still be available.

She said: "It took more than 14 months to save the first billion bags but the second billion was achieved in less than 9 months, showing that the trend is rapidly gaining support."

A whole range of bags have been introduced, the supermarket said, so that more people will be encouraged to purchase these options.

Recycled plastic bottles have been used in the making of the bags, with some designed by the revered Cath Kidston.

This week Tesco said that its Extra stores will push plastic bags under the counter, meaning shoppers will have to specifically ask for them.

The East of England Co-operative (Co-op) Society has also stated today that it will no longer offer plastic bags free of charge.