New measures to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste are being proposed in a new consultation.

A ban on the distribution and/or sale of plastic straws, plastic drinks stirrers and plastic-stemmed cotton buds in England (subject to a consultation), was announced by the prime minister in April.

These single-use plastics are associated with negative effects on the environment if they are littered or discarded incorrectly after their use. Not only do they damage terrestrial and marine life, there are costs associated with their clean-up and externality costs imposed on the tourism and fishing industries when they are incorrectly disposed of.

This consultation aims to address the impact of plastic straws, plastic-stemmed cotton buds and plastic drink stirrers on the environment. Everyone is welcome to reply to this consultation including manufacturers, trade representatives, retailers, wholesalers, environmental groups, waste management organisations, scientists, non-governmental organisations and members of the public.

The consultation opens on 22 October 2018 and closes on 3 December 2018.

To take part in the consultation, go to the DEFRA website.

Did you know that environmental protection notices (notice 1803), clean air notices (notice 1801) and control of pollution notices (notice 1802) are gazetted?