70% of Britons back single-use plastic ban, poll claims

Most thought retailers should stop selling these items because of their environmental impact

Colourful drinking straws. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Seven in 10 people polled for a new survey think there should be a complete ban on single-use plastic items such as water bottles and straws.

An overwhelming majority of respondents believed retailers should no longer stock or supply these items due to the devastating effect they have on the environment.

One in 10 respondents said it was ”too hard” to buy products made from recycled materials and refillable beauty products.

The poll also found two thirds of its 18-24 age group were more concerned about climate change and sustainability issues compared to a year ago.

Half of the 2,000 adults polled said they would be put off buying from a shop or business that was not environmentally friendly or stocked brands that were such.

“This survey data supports our understanding of our youngest adult fashion shoppers, for whom there is no compromise when it comes to seeking out style that doesn’t harm the planet," said Daniella Vega, head of sustainability for Selfridges which commissioned the research as part of its wider sustainability programme, found.

“We are committed to buying better and inspiring change so that our customers can do the same.”

Choosing second-hand fashion is most popular with 18-24 year olds, with more than half shopping for second-hand and vintage clothing - far more than those aged 45 or older, the poll found.

SWNS