15c levy proposed for non-recyclable cups

The cups which could attract the levy have a plastic film lining which makes them non-recyclable

Coffee and tea drinkers could be charged a levy for their cups under new proposals being considered by Minister for the Environment Denis Naughten.

A spokesperson for the Minister has confirmed that he is examining the possible introduction of a levy on non-recyclable single-use cups, similar to the plastic bag levy.

It is understood Mr Naughten believes the levy needs to be at least 15c, in order to effect behavioural change.

The cups which could attract the levy have a plastic film lining which makes them non-recyclable.

"As a society we discard an incredible 80% of what we produce after a single use," Mr Naughten said.

"Every day 2 million throwaway coffee cups are sent to landfill here," he added.

Measures are also being considered to encourage cafés to introduce biodegradable or reusable cups.

Minister Naughten has held talks with his Scottish counterpart to explore how Ireland and Scotland could collaborate on a number of initiatives aimed at tackling a range of environmental and waste issues.

Other areas being examined include illegal dumping of tyres, waste debris from ships and trawlers, and the growing problem of coastline waste that ends up in our seas.