The first “Low Plastic Zone” or LPZ recently launched in Clerkenwell. After finding that 95 per cent of consumers want local businesses to reduce plastics, North London Waste Authority (NLWA) in partnership with Islington Council and six other north London boroughs, debuted the initiative in Cowcross Street, with a view to reducing the single use plastic given to customers and to take forward a Charter of Commitment.
The LPZ aims to encourage and support local businesses to reduce the amount of single use plastic used – a particular challenge in EC1 where street markets like Leather Lane and Exmouth Market cater for the lunchtime takeaway diners. A recent survey showed public demand, with 95 percent of respondents wanting local Businesses to cut out single use plastic, with some buyers refusing to use businesses that don’t take action.
The LPZ launched at the Lazybones restaurant in Cowcross Street. As Cllr Clyde Loakes of the North London Waste Authority said: “Our research shows that the majority of people are trying hard to reduce their use of single-use plastic but are frustrated at how difficult it is to avoid when shopping or eating and drinking on-the-go. Reducing the amount of waste we all create, and single-use plastics in particular, is essential for helping tackle the climate emergency.
“We know that businesses want to reduce their environmental impact, not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s good for business. People are telling us that they are more likely to use companies who are taking action in this area so we are confident that this flagship initiative will be a win-win; for businesses, for consumers and of course, for the planet.” Increasing numbers of cafes and takeaways allow customers to bring their own containers and refuse the plastic knife and fork. Shopping areas at Haringey, Camden, Barnet, Enfield, Hackney and Waltham Forest are also attaining, or have attained, Low Plastic Zone status.
More information:
Visit; wiseuptowaste.org.uk/ businesses/low-plastic-zones
