The dangers plastic bags pose to wildlife in Lichfield have been highlighted in a House of Commons debate.
The discussion had been highlighting marine environment issues.
But Conservative MP Michael Fabricant said there were inland threats too.
“Nothing is more heart-breaking than walking along a coast – or even in Lichfield right in the middle of the nation, where we have the lakes of Minster Pool and Stowe Pool – and seeing swans and other animals suffering because of bags and other material that have been left there,” he said.
Environment Minister George Eustice said the Government was committed to tackling the issue.
“That is why we took the decision to introduce the 5p charge on single-use plastic bags,” he responded. “The big problem we have with plastics is that they remain in the environment for a very long time, which compounds the problem, and we add to it each year.
“Once these plastics are in the marine environment, it is incredibly difficult for them to be removed, so it is essential that we do all we can to stop plastics getting into the marine environment.”
I think the manufacture of plastic shopping bags should be banned.
Also think fines should be imposed on manufacturers who use excessive plastic wrapping.
Of course Fab wouldn’t mention Chasewater – it’s in Burntwood.
How about re-cycling card and paper again so manufacturers can produce paper carriers and food bags again. Good much better in paper bag anyway.
Bags can then be recycled again for further use.
This happens in Germany. Much better idea.
Also install machines in foyer’s in supermarkets where people take all plastic, bottles, cans and glass bottles to recycle. Again in Germany this is the norm. You pay deposit on bottles etc then you take them to the machines where they are counted and you get deposit back. Very few cans and bottles littering streets, parks etc because there is always someone who will pick them up to earn a bit of money.
This is my experience in Munich