Nation's supermarkets launch anti-plastic scheme

A new initiative has been launched to cut down on the number of plastic bags purchased by shoppers.

The scheme, which has the backing of the Dept of the Environment and six major supermarkets, will encourage shoppers to use one bag when shopping.

Shoppers will also be encouraged to buy glass instead of plastic bottles.

Environment Minister Noel Dempsey said the campaign will be backed up by plenty of advertising in the stores concerned, with the emphasis on waste prevention.

"In simple terms, if the shopper can prevent or minimise the amount of packaging coming into their homes, they have less waste to dispose of later," he said.