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Portsmouth MP backs campaign to tackle plastic pollution

By 20 May 2019September 8th, 2022No Comments

Stephen Morgan MP has lent his support to a campaign by the National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI) and Friends of the Earth to dramatically reduce plastic pollution and the amount of plastic we use.

The MP is supporting the Plastic Pollution Bill which calls for government to set targets to phase out non-essential single use plastics by 2025 and eradicate almost all plastic pollution by 2042.

The Portsmouth MP said:

“The people of Portsmouth have told me they want urgent action to tackle the plastic waste that is blighting our environment and harming our wildlife.

With 12 million tonnes of plastic ending up in the sea each year and as Portsmouth is a coastal community, we simply cannot wait any longer to take action.

That’s why I am backing the Plastic Pollution Bill to stem the plastic tide and help preserve our environment for future generations.”

Ann Jones, Vice Chair of the NFWI said:

“WI members have been taking action in their own communities to reduce their own use of plastic, and encourage others to the same but as individuals we can only do so much.

“The figures are shocking. Only 9% of all plastic waste has ever been recycled. And our research highlighted that by simply washing synthetic clothes this releases trillions of tiny plastic fibres every week.

“If we are to end the scourge of plastic pollution we need strategic action from government and we urge the government to take the opportunity to lead on this hugely important issue.”

Craig Bennett, Friends of the Earth CEO said:

We’re delighted Stephen Morgan MP is backing the call for a new law to tackle the plastic crisis.

“The public is crying out for tougher action, with nearly nine out of ten people backing new legislation to end non-essential single-use plastics by 2025.

“The government must listen to growing concerns and turn the tide of plastic waste that’s polluting our environment and harming our wildlife.”