ABERYSTWYTH has become the first major town in Wales to be declared plastic free.

Following on the heels of New Quay and Aberporth, Aberystwyth has achieved the Plastic Free Town accreditation from Surfers Against Sewage, a UK-wide environmental campaigning charity focused on protection of the marine environment.

The Plastic Free Coastlines initiative, launched by Surfers Against Sewage in 2017, aims to raise awareness and tackle the devastating impacts of single-use plastic.

Laura Truelove, regional representative for Surfers Against Sewage, said: “I’m so proud to be involved in such a positive campaign to rid unnecessary single-use plastics from Aberystwyth and it’s such a pleasure to work with Aberystwyth business owners.”

Fellow Plastic Free Steering Group coordinator Chris Woodfield added: “It’s great to be collaborating with like-minded people across the town whilst also bringing the issue of single-use plastics to new audiences.”

Under the scheme, businesses sign up to the initiative and change at least three items from single-use plastic to more sustainable alternatives.

There will also be community outreach with schools talks and engagement with community groups, local governance support and community events such as beach cleans and the Plastic Free Movie Night.

Accredited businesses so far include Medina, The Treehouse, Baravin, Maeth y Meysydd, Sophie’s and Crimson Rhino with others are currently being added and accredited.

Aberystwyth Town Council became the first town council to support the initiative in July 2017 and subsequently Ceredigion County Council pledged to support the campaign.

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