France to impose a 'picnic tax' on plastic

France is to impose a “picnic tax” on plastic cutlery and plates as part of a drive to cut down on waste, but the unlikely levy has stuck in the throat of “pique-niqueurs” across the country.

 A tax of 90 cents per kilogram will
be placed on plastic and paper throwaway cups from next year, aimed
at cutting the average 360kg of rubbish generated per person per
year in France.

A raft of other "green" taxes
may also be imposed, including on batteries, televisions, washing
machines and fridges, with tax breaks offered for more
environmentally friendly alternatives.