BBC Countryfile Magazine

SOLVING THE UK’S PLASTIC PROBLEM

WHAT IS THE ISSUE?

Plastic has been integral to global development over the past 60 years, extending the shelf life of foods and enabling goods to be transported efficiently and economically around the world. Yet, the disadvantages of its (generally) single-use nature are increasingly evident.

Food containers, food wrappers, plastic bottles and bags are the most widespread items polluting rivers, beaches and oceans worldwide. Plastic packaging for food, beverage and tobacco contributes to around 61% of global beach litter.

Small animals get stuck or die within discarded bottles; the RSPCA receives 7,000 calls a year about litter-related incidents, including badger cubs with

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