Montgomeryshire AM Russell George has called on the Welsh Government to back a ban on single-use plastics.

A motion brought before the Welsh Assembly earlier this month aimed to see Wales follow the UK Government's lead in its 25 Year Environment Plan, which has brought forward important measures such as the ban on microbeads in personal care and cosmetic products and a ban on plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds.

Following the debate, Mr George said: "The Welsh Government must do more to tackle the scourge of single-use plastics by following the UK Government's lead, but proactive policy has been sadly lacking from the Welsh Government to date.

"There has been some success when it comes to recycling, but even the most recent statistics show a worrying downturn.

"At the moment, Wales is behind the curve, and whether this is a capacity or leadership issue, it’s clear that we need to up our game.

"I urge the Welsh Government to take heed and ensure that Wales becomes a world leader in tackling single-use plastic and by doing so, preserve our streets, countryside and wildlife here in Powys for generations to come."

Earlier this year, plans to cut the use of disposable plastic products in Wales were set out by the Welsh Government.

High profile suggestions included working with other parts of the UK on a deposit return scheme (DRS) for drinks containers, while drinking water in public places will be increased as Wales wants to be the "world's first 'Refill Nation'."

"It's really important that we remember that we're starting this from a very different point from our colleagues in Scotland and England. Their current recycling rates are less than 50% whereas ours are well over 60%. It's important that anything we do now builds on that," said Environment minister Hannah Blythyn following the release of the plans.