Wales aims to end single-use plastics by 2050
Wales will aim to phase out single-use plastics by 2050 and become the world leading nation for recycling, the Welsh Government has announced.
The country is currently rated the best in the UK and fourth in a global league table for recycling and ministers are now aiming for it to become the first zero-waste nation.
A National Assembly Committee concluded in June this year Wales "cannot waste another day in the battle against plastic pollution".
On Friday, the Welsh Government unveiled its Beyond Recycling strategy, which proposes banning waste being sent to landfill or incinerators, as well as ending single-use products.
Other aims include eradicating food waste, a deposit return scheme for drinks containers, prioritising the purchasing of re-manufactured and recycled materials and wood, ending the exporting of waste to other countries and investing in zero-emission vehicles.
Microchipped food waste bins introduced to promote recycling
Campaigners call for 25p 'latte levy' on takeaway cups in Wales
Deputy Minister for Housing and Local Government Hannah Blythyn AM said an additional £6.5 million would be given to local authorities and other publicly funded bodies alongside the consultation.
A public consultation on the proposals will end in April, with a final strategy to be published next year.