Dorset businesses which want to reduce their plastic consumption and become more sustainable could be in with a chance of winning an award.

The number of single-use plastics used globally has tripled since the start of the pandemic with an estimated 583 billion plastic bottles produced in 2021.

That is 100 billion more than were produced just five years ago.

In an effort to help businesses make small changes which can have a big impact on the environment, the Litter Free Dorset campaign has launched a new award.

It is inviting businesses in the county to take their first steps towards achieving the free to enter Sustainable Business Award by completing an initial survey which should take about 10 minutes to complete. Visit www.dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk to fill out the survey.

Using the survey, businesses can pledge the actions they plan to make in the coming months as well as record what they are already doing which will gain them a Sustainable Business Award and will be a great way of showing customers and the local community they are making a difference.

Actions that can be pledged include:

• Joining the refill campaign

• Increasing your recycling

• Completing a single use plastic audit

• Providing staff with opportunities to take part in sustainable activities

Alongside the award, Litter Free Dorset is developing a Sustainable Business Network where businesses can support each other towards a more sustainable future.

Businesses which sign up to the network will be invited to events hosted by environmental experts and will meet other businesses taking similar steps to reduce single use plastic, waste and potential pollution from their business.

Eimear Coyle, Litter Free Dorset Project Officer said: “The award is organised into different categories including plastic, recycling and water quality, so there is something for every business.

“There will be some pledges you may never have thought of before so it’s a great opportunity for businesses to look at what they’re currently doing and take the next steps towards sustainability.”

Stuart Beckingham, QMULs Preventing Plastic Pollution Communications Officer said: “As consumers increasingly look to adopt more sustainable lifestyles, savvy businesses understand the value in showing their commitment to environmental sustainability. Our project is pleased to be able to support this initiative and help local businesses take action to reduce avoidable plastic waste.”

*For more information head to Litter Free Dorset’s website: https://www.litterfreedorset.co.uk/