The European Union is proposing a ban on plastic cutlery, straws, plates, and other single-use items that contribute to bulging landfills and polluted seas.

"Worldwide this is the most ambitious and comprehensive legal proposal addressing marine litter," said Frans Timmermans, the European commission’s first vice-president.  "We can lead the way.  We have to lead the way for our environment, for our health, but also to turn this into a competitive advantage for Europe."

The proposed law would also cover plastic drink stirrers, plastic cotton swabs, and plastic sticks used on certain types of balloons.  It would force plastic producers to cover the cost of the clean-up of other products, like lightweight plastic bags, food containers and balloons.

Despite the limited list, campaigners approve of finally addressing plastic pollution in our oceans.

"We think it's a step in the right direction," said Kevin Stairs of Greenpeace.  "It is only a handful of items that are being banned, but the message is very loud," he added.