Most of us may be familiar with the shocking prediction that by 2050, there will be more plastic in our oceans than fish. It’s estimated that more than 12 million tonnes of plastic enters our waters every year - the equivalent of a rubbish truck every single minute [Oceana, 2022]. 40% of this plastic is single use (SUP); designed to be used once but which can take hundreds of years to decompose. Sealife, including turtles, whales, and the fish we eat, often ingest this plastic. While obviously harmful for the wildlife, this also poses significant risk to humans: those of us who eat fish risk ingesting microplastics ourselves.  

While the scale of the challenge may feel overwhelming, Bouygues Energies & Services (Bouygues E&S), an Equans company, recognises the vital role that eliminating plastic waste must play in our ongoing commitment to sustainability. That’s why we’re working hard to reduce SUPs within our business as much as possible. Through working collaboratively with our suppliers, we’re identifying key areas for improvement and upskilling our supply chain with the knowledge and ability to change. Our efforts have already resulted in an annual saving of 486 kg of plastic, which translates to the avoidance of 1034 kg of CO2 emissions! 

On the ground, our teams across the country are dedicating their time to address this serious issue. In Littlehampton, one team, equipped with bin bags and litter pickers, volunteered to clean a beach. They collected discarded plastic and other rubbish, preventing it from entering the ocean and harming our wildlife. We are delighted to have been able to make the beach more enjoyable for everyone (and everything!).