Porthmadog’s bid to become Gwynedd’s first plastic-free town has gained more momentum thanks to the efforts of environmentally aware locals.

A meeting on Wednesday, 22 January, heard how a number of residents and businesses are already making positive strides towards using sustainable materials.

The hope now is that, with the support of environmental group Surfers Against Sewage, the town can secure plastic-free status.

Cllr Nia Jeffreys said: “As a coastal town built on land reclaimed from the sea, the effects of climate change and the damage plastics cause to marine life are very important issues for those of us who live here in Porthmadog.

“I know that a number of individuals and local companies are doing great work in terms of environmental efforts. This is an important first step and it was inspiring to see representatives from local schools and businesses, volunteers and Surfers Against Sewage come together to see how we can develop Porthmadog into a plastic-free town.”

Cllr Catrin Wager, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet member for highways and municipal matters, said: “With around five million tonnes of plastic waste generated in the UK every year, we all have a responsibility to consider the products we buy and how we can make changes for the benefit of our environment.

“I’d like to thank everyone who attended the meeting in Porthmadog and hope that this will form the start of what will be an important campaign for the area towards a greener town for everyone.

“Positive work is also being carried out in a number of our communities and I’d urge any other area that wants to work on a similar positive campaign in their area to get in touch with Gwynedd Council.”

Work will now be carried out to consider what steps can be taken to cut down the use of single-use plastic in the town, as well as the introduction of street-recycling bins in Porthmadog.

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