Following an open consultation, Environment Secretary Michael Gove has confirmed that a ban on the supply of plastic straws and drink stirrers will come into force in April 2020. The ban will include exemptions to ensure that those with medical needs or a disability are able to continue to access plastic straws.
The government’s response to the consultation published yesterday (22 May) revealed that over 80% of respondents back a ban on the distribution and sale of plastic straws while 90% support a ban on drinks stirrers.
In England, it is estimated that annually we use 4.7 billion plastic straws and 316 million plastic stirrers. Even though non-plastic alternatives are readily available, it is estimated that 95% of straws are still plastic.