FOOD takeaway businesses in Monmouthshire are to be encouraged to reduce the use of polystyrene and single use plastics. 

Taxpayers in Wales spend around £8 million a year clearing up litter. In addition, an army of dedicated volunteers works tirelessly throughout the county to keep communities litter-free. Despite this, fast food litter is more noticeable in Monmouthshire’s villages, towns and on countryside roads than ever before.

Councillor Bryan Jones, Monmouthshire’s cabinet member for Waste and Recycling said: “We have all become more aware of the problems of single use plastics and polystyrene, particularly the devastating effect it has on our oceans, shown graphically in programmes like Blue Planet. Sadly, much of this plastic pollution comes from the land. Litter is all too often blown into grass verges and hedgerows, then into streams and rivers that flow out to sea.

“Thanks to its residents, Monmouthshire has been at the top of the recycling league table. Now it’s time though to turn our attention to the epidemic of non-recyclable single use plastic and polystyrene litter blighting our beautiful landscape.”

Carl Touhig, Interim Head of Waste said: “Over the coming months we will write to all food take-away outlets, asking them to consider reducing their amount of plastic and polystyrene packaging.”

“From our conversations with residents and local community groups, we know that this issue is very close to their hearts and we are confident that Monmouthshire’s businesses will take up the challenge to reduce, re-use and recycle.”

For further information on waste and recycling contact the council’s Education And Awareness Officer Rebecca Blount on [email protected] or by calling 01633 644126.