RETAILERS have been urged to donate the proceeds from the 5p carrier bag charge to charity when the regulation comes into force later this year.

Shops will be required to charge 5p for every single-use carrier bag under a new Scottish Government zero waste regulation which comes in on October 20.

The Government hopes all the money raised will go to good causes, but this will rely on a voluntary agreement by retailers.

Zero Waste Scotland has now launched the Carrier Bag Commitment to recognise retailers who donate the money.