Online Orders Now Create 2.6 Million Plastic Bags a Day in the UK
A Growing Issue Behind the Clicks
While traditional retail has dramatically reduced plastic bag use in recent years, a less visible but rapidly growing issue is emerging from the world of online shopping.
In 2024 alone, online fashion retailers in the UK generated an estimated 941 million plastic mailing bags – the equivalent of 2.6 million bags every day. And this figure is only set to grow.
Ecommerce Exempt from Packaging Levies
Thanks to the plastic carrier bag charge introduced in 2015, the UK’s brick-and-mortar retail sector has reduced single-use plastic bag usage by an impressive 98%. However, these regulations do not currently apply to ecommerce transactions.
This regulatory gap is now fuelling a surge in plastic packaging waste. Projections indicate a 40% increase in ecommerce plastic bag use over the next three years, reaching a staggering 1.3 billion extra bags annually, or nearly 7 billion bags over five years.
The UK Tops Europe’s Ecommerce Packaging Waste
Among all European nations, the UK now produces the highest volume of plastic delivery bags for online retail, surpassing Germany by around 150 million bags per year.
Consumers Want Greener Packaging
Recent research by Censuswide highlights strong public demand for change. Among 2,000 UK respondents:
- 67% support phasing out plastic mailing bags when viable alternatives exist
- 60% prefer packaging made of cardboard or paper
- 50% feel guilty about the amount of plastic their online orders generate
- 46% would choose a fashion retailer that uses recyclable or eco-friendly packaging
These insights show that UK consumers are not only aware of the issue but are actively looking for more sustainable shopping experiences.
Recycling Rates Remain Alarmingly Low
Despite the huge volume of plastic bags in circulation, only 9% of ecommerce plastic packaging is currently reused or recycled. That leaves approximately 857 million plastic bags entering landfills or incineration facilities every year.
If the current trend continues, that number could hit 1 billion unrecycled bags annually by 2030 – a major concern for environmental sustainability.
Closing the Regulatory Gap
The success of single-use plastic charges in physical retail demonstrates that regulation works. But unless similar action is taken for ecommerce, progress on plastic reduction risks being undone by the rapid rise of online shopping. The research makes it clear: both retailers and regulators have a responsibility to address this growing source of waste.
Affordable Waste Management Can Help
If you’re a UK business concerned about plastic packaging, recycling, or general waste compliance, Affordable Waste Management is here to help. With nationwide coverage and a network of over 200 trusted contractors, we offer tailored waste solutions to help you stay compliant, reduce environmental impact, and cut costs.
Get in touch today to receive a personalised quote for your waste management needs.