Wales 'cannot waste another day' as AMs call for urgent action on plastic pollution

A National Assembly Committee has concluded Wales "cannot waste another day in the battle against plastic pollution". The group of AMs is calling for Wales to "lead by example" to reduce plastic use.

A new report by the Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee has called for urgent action on the issue.

According to the committee the Welsh Government should use the strength of public demand for chance to act now against plastic waste.

The report suggested Wales lead the way rather than waiting for others to act.

AMs compiling the report said people in Wales realise "we are in the midst of an environment crisis".

The report comes amid a background of environmentally-based decisions made by the Welsh Government. First Minister Mark Drakeford axed plans for an M4 relief road after concerns over the environmental impact of the scheme.

Meanwhile climate strikes are continuing to be held around the country as protesters call for action on climate change.

Interventions suggested in the report include:

• Introduction of a Deposit Return Scheme to encourage the return of materials for reuse or recycling

• Extended Producer Responsibility to ensure that the producer meets the end of life costs arising from their products

• A Plastic Packaging Tax as a financial incentive to use recycled plastics

The inquiry head evidence from experts at Cardiff University, the Marine Conservation Society, Friends of the Earth, Just One Ocean, Eunomia, Dŵr Cymru and University of Plymouth.

The group also looked at the effects of microplastics on Welsh waterways, seas and soils. One in every two insects in the Taff river system already contains microplastics.

• Read more: Microplastic pollution in Welsh rivers 'a major concern'

The report will now be considered by the Welsh Government.