The government of England has announced plans to ban single-use plastic plates, cutlery and polystyrene cups by the end of 2023 in an effort to reduce pollution caused by poor rates of recycling. The decision follows a long-running government consultation on proposals to ban certain plastic items, which is expected to be released next week and is believed to include plastic trays, bowls and cutlery.

According to Environment Secretary Therese Coffey, the ban will have a significant impact on reducing plastic pollution, which currently contributes to the contamination of rivers and oceans. "A plastic fork can take 200 years to decompose," said Ms. Coffey. "That's two centuries in landfill or polluting our oceans. I am determined to drive forward action to tackle this issue head on. We've already taken major steps in recent years, but we know there is more to do, and we have again listened to the public's calls."

The government's move to outlaw single-use plastics is part of a larger effort to protect the natural environment for future generations. "This new ban will have a huge impact to stop the pollution of billions of pieces of plastic and help to protect the natural environment for future generations," said Ms. Coffey.