People in Waltham Forest are being encouraged to ditch plastic bags to do their part to save the environment.

North London Waste Authority (NLWA), which manages waste disposal in the borough, has launched a new campaign aimed at encouraging residents to think about the plastic they waste.

Officers from NLWA will be on hand at various locations during a roadshow to give advice on reducing waste, as well as handing out free, reusable bags.

Any residents who speak to officers will also be entered into a draw to win tickets to the Sea Life Centre.

It is estimated that nearly 8 million tonnes of plastic ends up in the world’s oceans every year and can take up to 450 years to degrade.

Thinner plastics, such as shopping bags, can however break down in the water much faster, releasing toxic chemicals.

NLWA chairman, Cllr Clyde Loakes, said: “When reusable carrier bags are so readily available and so much sturdier, it is important that people use them instead of flimsy plastic bags.

“Plastic bags have a huge environmental impact and we should all be trying to reduce their usage.”

NLWA officers be handing out reusable bags at The Mall, in Walthamstow on Monday, February 12 between 11am and 2pm. For more information visit: wiseuptowaste.org.uk.