Good causes across Scotland are to benefit from a windfall of £750,000 from a local fund being launched by the Co-operative.
The money has been raised from the Co-op’s plastic carrier bag charges and sales in its food stores.
In addition to the 5p minimum charge on single-use bags, the Co-op has also pledged to top up the fund with proceeds from its entire range of carriers, including sales of its bags-for-life and its new woven reusable shopping bags.
The fund will be distributed among hundreds of organisations and groups in Scotland. They will receive between £200 and £2,500 to “make a difference in their community”.
Organisations are being encouraged to apply online for a share of the fund before the deadline of midnight on Wednesday October 7.
John McNeill, divisional managing director for the Co-operative Food in Scotland, said: “The Co-operative is a community retailer with a strong heritage and commitment to the environment, and to supporting its local communities.
“The Co-op shares the aspiration of reducing the number of single-use carrier bags in use.
“It is also encouraging shoppers to further reduce their reliance on single-use carriers by donating proceeds from its reusable bags to good causes too.
“The money raised will enable organisations across Scotland to make a difference in their community – together, we will reduce, reuse, recycle and reinvest in our communities.”
Groups should visit www.co-oplocalfund.co.uk for further information.