April 16, 2018: People not using their reusable water bottles, poll finds (Southend Standard)

“While more than half (55%) said they owned a reusable water bottle, 17% of the 2,138 people questioned by YouGov have one but do not regularly use it and 2% have never used the one they own.”

April 24, 2018: Video shows sea of plastic bottles after London Marathon (The Independent)

“We have to change”

April 25, 2018: UK To Ban All Plastic Straws, Cotton Swabs, And Single-Use Plastics (Forbes)

“The UK is set to ban all sales of single-use plastics, including plastic straws and cotton swabs from the country as early as next year. Prime Minister Theresa May announced the new ban during a meeting with Commonwealth nations, noting that plastic waste is one of the greatest environmental challenges the country faces.”

May 1, 2018: Southend beachgoers leave behind piles of rubbish (BBC)

“Beachgoers left behind piles of rubbish after enjoying the bank holiday weekend in the sun.
Heavy machinery had to be used to clear the beach at Southend, Essex, after it proved a popular destination for thousands of people over the long weekend.”