23 May 2019

Defra ‘Environment Secretary Michael Gove has today confirmed a ban on plastic straws, drinks stirrers, and plastic stemmed cotton buds in England, following overwhelming public support for the move. Following an open consultation, a ban on the supply of plastic straws, drinks stirrers and cotton buds will come into force in April 2020. The ban […]

14 May 2019

Common Space The Scottish Government has announced a deposit return scheme (DRS) for drinks and containers as part of plans to tackle climate change. Announcing the new scheme, which will include the ability to return aluminium and steel cans as well as drinks containers made of glass and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic to retailers with a […]

06 May 2019

Plymouth University: Biodegradable plastic bags are still capable of carrying full loads of shopping after being exposed in the natural environment for three years, a new study shows. Researchers from the University of Plymouth examined the degradation of five plastic bag materials widely available from high street retailers in the UK. They were then left […]

30 Apr 2019

The publicity and profile of this consultation is being raised as it nears its closing date. Have your say. Defra ‘Your responses to this consultation will help us to consider the merits of introducing a DRS. The aim of the UK and Welsh Government and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern […]

09 Apr 2019

From the Guardian Plastic bags now make up only 1% of plastic in freshwater after sustained efforts to reduce their use. Plastic bottles, the detritus of our throwaway water and soft drinks habits, are the most prevalent form of plastic pollution in European waterways, according to a new report. Food wrappers, including crisp and sweet […]

29 Oct 2018

European Parliament   Find out key facts about plastic in the ocean with our infographics, as well discover their impact and how the EU is acting to reduce plastic litter in the seas. The results of today’s single-use, throw-away plastic culture can be seen on sea shores and in oceans everywhere. Plastic waste is increasingly polluting […]