SCRAPPING free carrier bags in Wales has helped raise more than £17million for good causes in the last four years.

Since a 5p minimum charge for bags was introduced in 2011, the use of single-use carrier bags has dropped by 71 per cent in Wales, according to the findings of a report commissioned by the Welsh Government.

Between £17million and £22million has been raised in total, with the money going to good causes across the country.

Wales’s Natural Resources Minister Carl Sargeant said the introduction of the charge had led to a significant shift in consumer behaviour and important benefits to the environment.

“I am pleased that almost four years on from the introduction of the charge in Wales consumer habits appear to be changing which is having a positive knock on effect on the environment as well as raising a significant amount of money for good causes," he said.

From October 5, large retailers in England will also be required to charge for bags.