The Environment Secretary Michael Gove stated recently “We can be in no doubt that plastic is wreaking havoc on our marine environment – killing dolphins, choking turtles and degrading our most precious habitats”.
Have you heard about the proposed bottle deposit scheme for England? In a bid to boost recycling and slash the amount of waste polluting the planet, people will soon have to pay a deposit when they buy drinks bottles and cans.
The Government has confirmed that a deposit return scheme for single-use bottles is going to be introduced in England subject to consultation.
Similar schemes are already taking place worldwide including Germany, Sweden and parts of the US.
Footage from the series the Blue Planet II highlighted how serious the issue is, showing footage of ocean wildlife eating plastic and threat to marine life.
He also added “We need to see a change in attitudes and behaviour. And the evidence shows that reward and return schemes are a powerful agent of change.”
Look at the 5p levy put on plastic bags, for example. Consumption of single-use carrier bags went down 83% as a result. This change shows how effectively the UK could respond, if the right measures are in place.
Estimations predict that by 2050, plastic in the oceans will outweigh fish. You can learn more about the problem of plastic in our blog.
Other types of schemes are being considered by the UK too. These include cash rewards for returning drinks containers without enforcing an upfront deposit.
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