The end is in sight for single use plastic across Falkirk Council as it aims to help the global environmental problems caused by discarded plastic waste.

This month an awareness campaign kicks off that reminds employees what they can do to help themselves and the environment. Posters will be going up across workplaces explaining how everyone can make a small change to their habits including:

• Bringing in your own cup/mug instead of using paper cups
• Using a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water
• Using your own cutlery, plates and containers for your food

As the work to eradicate the plastic problem continues, some spare materials have been left and rather than throwing them away they have been donated to Carrongrange School for use in art classes.

Work is also well underway to find alternative biodegradable products for plastic sandwich and salad containers.

Councillor Paul Garner, spokesperson for the Environment said: “Single use plastics are damaging the global environment and we all can play our part in getting rid of them in the workplace and at home.

“We’re encouraging employees to make small and simple changes where they work and to use non disposable plates, cutlery and cups.

“We have stopped purchasing all these single use plastics and are doing everything we can to source alternative materials that are biodegradable. The most common items that will not be back in offices and depots are plastic cutlery and plates; plastic cups; drinking straws; plastic stirrers and polypockets.”

Debbie Cairns, art teacher at Carongrange said: “This is a great idea and project for our pupils to be involved in. It’s allowing them to see how different plastics can be recycled into some amazing pieces of art! Our plan is to create a sensory wall for everyone to enjoy in the reception area. Our S2 pupils are already creating and designing some quirky ideas and can’t wait to get stuck in.”