Single-Use Disposable Cups Charge Advisory Group: terms of reference

Purpose

The Scottish Government has committed to aligning with or going further than the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive (EU SUPD). We are also committed to moving to a more circular economy, ending Scotland’s contribution to climate change and moving to net zero.

That is why, in line with the 2020-21 Programme for Government commitment to 'plan to take further steps to consult on a charge on single-use disposable beverage cups', further steps are being taken to achieve an ambitious and sustained reduction in the consumption of single-use disposable beverage cups. These steps include the formation of this Advisory Group to advise on the implementation of a minimum charge on single-use beverage cups.

The process to implement this charge will be informed by the findings of the Expert Panel on Environmental Charging and Other Measures (EPECOM). Scottish Government action in this area will be driven by the five principles the panel recommended to help decision makers ensure holistic policy design; essential functions; evidence; equality; engagement and entire system (the purpose of these Principles is to provide a robust and holistic foundation to guide thinking about reducing consumption of single-use items).

Specifically, the Advisory Group will:

• provide expertise and advice on the implementation of a minimum charge on single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland
• facilitate access to expertise and resources from participants within the group and their broader networks

Roles and objectives

To undertake this responsibility effectively, members of the Advisory Group will provide expert input on the requirements of implementing a minimum charge on single-use beverage cups and supporting initiatives. It may also seek wider input from individuals/organisations with expertise in the operation of existing systems elsewhere. Key areas of focus are likely to be:

• scope of the charge
• implementation issues, including advice how the charge could be introduced, operated and business impacts
• implementation issue mitigations and opportunities
• potential business impacts
• equalities considerations
• monitoring, evaluation and enforcement issues

Members of the group will be required to:

• represent their sector on the group and expertise and advice on practical issues related to the operation of the scheme and how it interacts with production, retail and hospitality industries
• consider any opportunities associated with a minimum charge on single-use beverage cups charge for their sector and advise on how to maximise these
• consider any perceived challenges of a minimum charge on single-use beverage cups for their sector and advise on mitigation
• provide advice on specific implementation topics