The last straw? EU proposes ban on single-use plastic products, from stirrers to cotton buds

The European Union has proposed banning single-use plastic products like cotton buds, straws, stirrers and balloon sticks when alternatives are easily available in an attempt to reduce litter spoiling beaches and ocean beds.

The European Commission said its proposal would seek to cut marine litter in half for the 10 most prominent items and avoid environmental damage estimated at over US$250 billion over the next dozen years.

EU Vice-President Frans Timmermans said that single-use utensils would not be banned completely, but steps would be taken to have them made out of sustainable materials when possible.

“You can still organise a picnic, drink a cocktail and clean your ears just like before,” Timmermans said.

He also made new proposals to ensure that it is the polluter that pays.

The proposal will be assessed by the EU parliament and member states but Timmermans hopes to see results before May 2019.