Every year hundreds of thousands of animals and birds are killed and injured by plastic bags. A plastic bag is used on average for only 12 minutes, yets it's legacy can last several lifetimes.

Every year in the UK we use 10 billion plastic bags a year- that is 167 per person - most of which are thrown away after just one use. Most bags will end up in landfill sites, but many will clutter up our waterways, seas and landscape, causing untold harm to wildlife.

The answer lies in your hands - simply refuse to accept any more plastic bags and carry your own stock of reusable bags with you when you go shopping.