A ban on supplying plastic straws, stirrers and plastic-stemmed cotton buds has come into force in England today – news, which has been welcomed by North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson.
It is estimated we use 4.7 billion plastic straws, 316 million plastic stirrers, and 1.8 billion plastic-stemmed cotton buds in England every year, many of which find their way into our ocean. By banning the supply of these items, it is possible to further protect marine wildlife and move one step closer to the Government’s ambition of eliminating all avoidable plastic waste.
However, disabled people and those with medical conditions will also be protected, and will be able to request a plastic straw when visiting a pub or restaurant and purchase them from pharmacies.
The ban comes a month after ministers confirmed the single-use plastic bag charge would be increased to 10p and extended to all retailers, today’s commencement of the ban will further ensure the country builds back greener.
Looking forward, the government is also committed to launching a £500 million Blue Planet Fund to protect the ocean from plastic pollution, warming sea temperatures and overfishing.
Justin Tomlinson said: “I am very proud of the work the Government has done to tackle the scourge of plastic pollution and this is just the next step in out pledge to protect out oceans and environment for future generation.”
