PLASTIC straws have been banned by Waltham Abbey Town Council as part of its support for the Single Use Plastic campaign.

When Blue Planet II aired on the BBC at the end of 2017, many people became concerned about the amount of plastic dumped in the oceans, and the impact it has on aquatic life. 

As the government pledges to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste by 2042, the town council has banned the sale of plastic straws at Town Mead and Waltham Abbey Town Hall. 

In addition, the tourist information centre will sell reusable bottles and coffee cups instead of single use versions, and will act as a refill point.

Plastic cutlery has been banned on council premises. 

The initiative was tabled by Green Party activist Dave Plummer. 

He said: "I am really pleased that the council signed up to our campaign. 

"It is really important that we cut down single plastic use. 

"The Greens have been campaigning to cut down single plastic use in the area and further afield. 

"We hope others in the district get on board."

Go to efgp.org.uk/plastics