CAMRA backs plastic-free pint campaign
The Plastic Free Pint campaign wants there to be an outright ban on plastic pint cups such as those used at live sporting events and during festivals.
The ban would mean the end of plastic items that can pollute the environment and currently covers plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds.
It is expected to be widened and include plastic cutlery, plates and polystyrene cups alongside plastic sachets.
Licensing conditions amend needed
CAMRA national chairman Nik Antona said: “CAMRA supports the campaign for a plastic-free pint.
“With 75% of consumers agreeing plastic ruins the taste of beer, we’d like to see [the] Government not only ban single-used plastic pint cups but also support the development and adoption of solutions for a better pint.
“Any event or venue serving alcohol in the UK is required to consider public safety and some licensing authorities currently require the use of plastic or polycarbonate cups as an alternative to glass.
“It is therefore vital local authorities amend licensing conditions to include a wider range of materials, so the trade can protect consumers and the environment.
“There are countless innovators in the pub and beer trade that are working to produce alternatives to plastic pints, which CAMRA will continue to promote as part of its Drink Greener campaign.”
Plastic impact
According to global solutions organisation A Plastic Planet, which launched the Plastic Free Pint campaign, plastic pint cups are the sixth most commonly found plastic item in Britain’s rivers and eighth on the country’s beaches.
Research from Yonder in April revealed 89% of Brits want plastic pint cups banned to help protect the environment and three quarters (75%) of the more than 2,000 respondents also believed plastic pint cups ‘cheapened the experience’ of beer.
The poll coincided with an open letter signed by parliamentarians and figures from the beer and live music entertainment industry, calling on the Government to outlaw plastic pint cups.
