Check this carefully because there are at least four links to new Government information on plastics and microbeads. Also this is just one element of the Green Brexit speech give at WWF HQ.

Defra ‘Environment Secretary Michael Gove pledged action to reduce plastic waste choking our oceans as he set out his ambition for the UK to lead the world in environmental protection. Around eight million tonnes of plastic makes its way into oceans each year, posing a serious threat to our natural and marine environment – experts estimate plastic is ingested by 31 species of marine mammals and over 100 species of sea birds. As new figures published today revealed more than nine billion fewer plastic bags were used since the government introduced a 5p charge, an 83 per cent reduction, the Environment Secretary set out further plans to prevent other sources of plastic finding their way into our oceans and seas during a speech entitled ‘Delivering a Green Brexit’ today. Mr Gove confirmed legislation will be introduced this year to ban the sale and manufacture of microbeads – tiny pieces of plastic that are easily swallowed by marine life – in cosmetics and personal care products such as toothpastes and shower gels. Click here to read more

Summary of responses to the consultation on proposals to ban the use of plastic microbeads

‘Today Defra, the Scottish Government, the Welsh Government and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland have published the summary of responses to the consultation on proposals to ban the use of plastic microbeads in cosmetics and personal care products in the UK.   The consultation asked for comments on proposals for the UK’s implementation of a ban on the manufacture and sale of cosmetics and personal care products containing microbeads which may harm the marine environment. The consultation also sought to gather evidence on the extent of the environmental impacts of further sources of potential marine plastic pollution, to inform future UK actions to protect the marine environment. The UK government and Devolved Administrations would like to thank everyone who contributed to our consultation. The proposals have been refined following the consultation exercise and the responses will continue to help us develop future UK actions to protect the marine environment.’ Click here to read more.