Straw charge petition signed by 11,000 as more industry figures join war on plastic

A petition calling for a 5p plastic straw charge has gained more than 11,000 signatures as hotels, pubs and restaurants continue to introduce bans.

The government will now respond to the petition, which states: "Almost every piece of plastic ever produced still exists today. Most single-use plastic straws are discarded, often winding up in landfill, or contributing to the eight million tons of plastic entering the sea every year.

"Following the introduction of the 5p charge on plastic carrier bags in England, usage fell by 85% in just six months. We can achieve the same with plastic straws."

Last week Environment Secretary Michael Gove suggested a ban on plastic straws could be under consideration saying "watch this space" when asked about the issue.

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, is the latest business to announce it will ban plastic straws, instead offering guests a biodegradable alternative.

Tristan Nesbitt, general manager, said: "By removing plastic straws from our hotel, we have a real opportunity to play a small but significant part in reducing the volume of plastic waste which can damage our environment. This supports our commitment to being a green hotel and our work towards creating a more sustainable future through the efficient management of energy, waste and water.

Jason Atherton, D&D's London bars, Redcomb Pubs, Oakman Inns and Wetherspoons are among those to have already banished straws from their sites with chef Skye Gyngell of Spring, Somerset House, working towards becoming plastic free by the end of the year.

Luke Holder, joint head chef of Hartnett Holder & Co at Lime Wood hotel in Lyndhurst, Hampshire, has spearheaded a campaign to reduce plastic waste with #chefsagainstplastic, challenging his suppliers to change the way produce is delivered.

Michael Gove suggests ban on plastic straws could be introduced >>

Luke Holder and #chefsagainstplastic: good riddance to bad rubbish >>

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