Single-use plastics will be banned across the European Union, after approval was granted on Wednesday by the European Parliament.
The ban targets plastics with readily available alternatives, such as cutlery, cotton buds, straws, stirrers and balloon sticks.
Supporters want the legislation to take effect by 2021, but it must still be approved in negotiations with member states, parliament and the commission. Nonetheless, the WWF says this vote has put the EU on track as a global leader in reducing plastic pollution and pioneering stronger circular economies.