Join the Big Plastic Count: 9 to 15 March 2026

Elmbridge residents are invited to take part in The Big Plastic Count this March, a nationwide week of action to highlight the true scale of plastic waste in the UK.  

What is the Big Plastic Count?  

From 9 to 15 March, thousands of people across the country will be counting every piece of plastic packaging they throw away, whether it goes in the recycling, in the general waste bin or is disposed of while out and about. This collective effort will help build a clearer picture of how much plastic we use and what really happens to it.  

How it works 

• Sign up for The Big Plastic Count and read the FAQs  to find out more.
• You’ll receive a pack with a simple how to guide and a printable count sheet.
• Count your plastic as you go or collect it and record it at the end of each day or week, whatever suits you best.  
• Submit your results online by Sunday 22 March.  
• You’ll then receive your personalised plastic profile, showing how much plastic you threw away and where it ends up in the waste system.  

The more people who take part, the stronger the evidence to drive change. National results will be published in late April 2026.  

How we are supporting the Big Plastic Count  

As a council, we have already reduced the use of single-use plastics across its services in line with our Single Use Plastics Policy.

As part of this year’s Big Plastic Count, we’ll also be carrying out an internal plastic audit to understand how much plastic is thrown away during a typical working day. This will help raise awareness among staff and identify further ways we can reduce our own plastic consumption.  

Councillor Ashley Tilling, Portfolio Holder for Climate Change, Environmental Services and Sustainability, said:    

Plastic waste is one of the most pressing environmental challenges we face, and the Big Plastic Count is a powerful way for our community to understand the difference we can all make. By taking just a few minutes each day to record the plastic we throw away, we can help build the national evidence needed to drive real change. I encourage everyone in Elmbridge to get involved. Your participation will support our work to reduce single-use plastics across the borough and protect our environment for the future.

Find out more about our work to increase sustainability in Elmbridge.