In the UK it is estimated that five million tonnes of plastic is used every year, nearly half of which is packaging. Plastics may be convenient, but they are terrible for the environment as they do not decompose and can last centuries in landfill, or else end up as litter in the natural environment.  They also slowly break down into smaller pieces of plastic called microplastics which in turn can pollute soils, rivers and oceans, and harm the creatures that inhabit them. 

Single-use plastics are plastic items intended to be used only once before they are thrown away or recycled. Some examples include plastic shopping bags, water bottles, knives and forks, take-away containers, and plastic straws. We all have a part to play in reducing plastic pollution and recycling is a key part of this. But it’s important to remember that, where possible, we should reduce or re-use before recycling. 

Action you can take: 

• Use cloth or reusable shopping bags instead of plastic bags 

• Use a reusable water bottle instead of buying bottled water. 

• Use your own reusable mug when buying from coffee shops and avoid places that don’t offer non-plastic options.  

• Recycle as much as possible and support places that do the same 

• Be informed—get to know what is and isn’t recyclable in your local area. 

Explore more ways to be clear on plastic and remember to share your good ideas with family, friends and colleagues.