This month I’ve loved being busy with events in London. I was thoroughly impressed by Ecover’s pop up Rubbish Cafe 3rd-4th May and then 12th-13th May I celebrated the Soil Association’s Organic Beauty & Wellbeing Week at The Hoxton in London where several of my favourite organic brands were attending.
I’ve also enjoyed trips to the Suffolk coast for both bank holiday weekends where the asparagus season was in full swing. A specialist delicatessen, Slate, featured a rather impressive display outside their shop front and down the road the local pizzeria had a ‘seasonal special’ with asparagus, parma ham and feta – delicious!
In the news, a ‘plastic free’ logo is launched and the UK bans wet wipes while Europe considers a widespread ban on single-use plastic.
1. The world’s first ‘plastic free’ logo is launched
The environmental group, A Plastic Planet, has designed and launched the world’s first ‘plastic free’ logo. Any manufacturer will be able to use the logo to clearly signpost a plastic free product, enabling consumers to more easily avoid plastic packaging.
Teapigs and Iceland already have plans to use the logo on selected products by the end of this year. I look forward to seeing which other brands and retailers are next!
Source: Food Navigator
2. The UK bans wet wipes
As part of the government’s 25 year environmental plan, Michael Gove has recently announced a decision to ban wet wipes in the UK. It comes after thousands of wet wipes are found on beaches and rivers by clean up groups including Thames21.
Many consumers are unaware that these wipes are made of polyester and therefore non-biodegradable. In fact, because of their plastic content, they break down into microplastics with deadly consequences for marine life which easily ingest them.
Source: The Independent
3. Europe considers a ban on single-use plastic items
The European Commission is proposing a ban of 10 single use plastic items that make up 10% of all the waste found on European beaches. The list includes: cutlery, straws, cotton buds, plates and stirrers.
The proposal will need approval by all EU member states and is unlikely to come into force for 3-4 years but if it does happen then it’ll be one of the biggest steps taken towards tackling plastic pollution – fingers crossed!!
Source: CNN
