All of a sudden it seems like plastic has become a huge problem. Despite the fact that plastic pollution has been ongoing for decades. Following the recent discovery of a plastic eating enzyme, a mass move against the use of plastic straws and rumors of a bottle return scheme, more large-scale companies have signed up to cut their single-use plastic pollution over the next seven years.

Firms including Coca-Cola and Asda have promised to take action against their own plastic pollution by eliminating single-use plastics through better design. They, along with other multinational firms have joined the government, trade associations and campaigners to form the UK’s first ever plastic pact.

Those who have signed up to the UK plastics Pact are responsible for 80% of the single-use plastic that is sold to us through supermarkets. Procter & Gamble as well as Marks & Spencer have agreed to make 100% of their current plastic packaging recyclable or viable for composting by 2025.

What other pledges are included in the pact?

• Difficult, or unnecessary single use packing will be eliminated
• 70% of plastic will be recycled or composted
• 30% of any plastic used will include recycled material

Every industry needs to act in order to make a change to this enormous problem – including ours. Recycle your toner cartridges, don’t just throw them away.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask lauren@greenerside.co.uk