The UK government won’t take action on the issue of takeaway coffee cups, but will rely instead on discounts for reusable cups.
Earlier in the year, after it was claimed the UK throws away 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups a year, the Environment Audit Committee recommended a 25p “latte levy” on the cups to raise money to improve recycling.
Instead of the levy, the government has now suggested that coffee shops should offer discounts to customers who have reusable cups.
The committee chair Mary Creagh MP said: “The UK’s throwaway culture is having a devastating impact on our streets, beaches and seas. Our report recommended practical solutions to the disposable packaging crisis. The government’s response shows that despite warm words they plan no real action.”
