MARINE LITTER

Canada adds plastic microbeads of 5mm or less to toxic substance schedule / Possible prelude to a ban / Coordination with US legislation / Plastics industry critical

PLASTIC CARRIER BAGS

Northern Ireland reduces consumption by nearly 72% in first year of 5p levy / Proceeds fund community projects

PLASTIC CARRIER BAGS

Northern Ireland bag charge takes effect / Scotland to follow / Pressure on England

PLASTICS AND ENVIRONMENT

EU Commission finds that citizens favour plastic bag ban / More than 15,500 participated in 2011 consultation / Member states upgrade legislation / Cereplast sees good chances for biopolymers