Following the introduction of the 5p charge last May, the supermarket chain has used 90 per cent fewer plastic bags and has put the money it saved aside for charity.
In response to the support from the public, the Co-op has launched a fund offering individuals and groups working on environmental projects the chance to bid for grants from a £35,000 fund in Jersey and £25,000 in Guernsey.
This money has been raised by savings which the company made on the supply of carrier bags as well as the 5p per bag charge. Its aim was also to raise funds for environmental projects in the community.
Head of sales and marketing Jim Plumley said that the company was delighted with the dramatic drop in the use of plastic carrier bags and the way in which customers of all ages had accepted the scheme and supported it.
