DITCH PLASTIC COVER TOYS URGES ELUNED AND 10 YEAR OLD SKYE

ELUNED MORGAN TEAMS UP WITH CLIMATE CONCIOUS 10-YEAR-OLD TO URGE MAGAZINES TO DITCH COVER TOYS

The Senedd Member has backed the young campaigner’s call to end the distribution of damaging plastic. 

10-year-old Skye Neville from Fairbourne reached out to Eluned over concerns about the damage being done to the environment by the millions of non-recyclable plastic gifts issued in magazines. 

The Senedd Member for Mid & West Wales is exploring how the Welsh Government can take additional steps to reduce plastic magazine pollution. 

“These toys are marketed at children, whose environmental future we are trying to protect.” said the MS. “Some plastics can last decades – if not centuries – in our environment. They should be environmentally friendly and serve an educational purpose.” 

“Wales is a World-leader on recycling and has a proud record of delivery on environmental issues. It’s our duty to act to protect our future generations by adopting measures to eliminate non-recyclable, unethical, single use materials.” 

In the next term, the Welsh Labour Government has pledged to ban the use of 9-types of plastic in Wales, and Eluned believes that packaging reform should be the next step. 

Peppa Pig, LOL Dolls, Horrible Histories, My Little Pony and Mr. Men are just some of the many children’s magazines which come with free plastic; ranging from whistles, figurines and dinosaur grabbers to footballs and pretend make-up – toys that will be played with for five minutes and discarded. 

During her Zoom conversation with Eluned, Skye shared several of the plastic items in her collection, including a plastic tongue! 

“Why do we need this?” she said. “I just want the magazines. I enjoy reading them, especially Horrible Histories, but I don’t want or need the cheap plastic toys which are either played with for a few minutes or break on the first use and then are thrown away!” 

Skye has been busy researching and advocating, writing to several magazine editors and politicians from across Mid and West Wales.  Inspired by her story and enthusiasm, Eluned Morgan stepped forward to meet virtually with Skye and her Dad, Dave. 

Eluned heard how Skye and her friends had developed a keen interest in climate change, engaging in research and spreading awareness.  In her converted cart, the youngster often trundles around her village donning a ‘Fairbourne Litter Pickers’ vest, picking up rubbish and acclaim from locals who appreciate her efforts. 

“It’s very encouraging to see young people like Skye taking such a strong environmental stance. Coming from Fairbourne, an area facing significant threats from climate change, her plea feels even more poignant. 

“She should be incredible proud of the awareness she is raising, and I’d like to thank her for being such a fantastic role model and ambassador for the environment.” 

As the young activist prepares to engage with schools across Mid & West Wales, the Senedd Member has pledged to push the issue within Government. 

To date, Skye’s petition has received over 2340 signatures – you can support her campaign by visiting: http://chng.it/jrBndKMx 

Eluned has approached Kennedy Publishing and other magazine distributors for feedback.