Transition Newton Abbot and the University Technical College are joining forces to mark World Environment Day tomorrow, June 5.

Marking the start of the Plastic-Free Newton Abbot campaign, the Transition Newton Abbot team will be screening BAG IT - a film about single-use plastics and how to kick the habit – at the college.

A spokesperson for the group said: ‘Participants, students, staff and guests are invited to the viewing. UTC student eco ambassadors and staff are already ahead of the game, having made great strides to reduce plastics use at their college. With the help of the UTC, we are hoping to work with other schools and colleges as the campaign gains momentum.

‘Support is coming from all quarters for the plastic free campaign - from Newton Abbot Town Council and Town Development Manager Sally Henley, as well as Jackie Hook, Teignbridge Council’s portfolio holder for the climate emergency, and Alistair Dewhirst, portfolio holder for the environment.

‘It’s an initiative that has captured everyone’s imagination, especially since the David Attenborough Blue Planet film on plastic pollution in the oceans.

‘Our campaign is part of a South West-wide movement headed by Surfers against Sewage and strong local support from Ben Bryant of Community Action Groups Devon.’

Meanwhile, the University Technical College will be delivering a hands-on Open Day for prospective students and their families on World Environment Day, to get a taste of what the college is about and its commitment to the environment.

Visitors will be asked to roll up their sleeves and get stuck in to a task designed by college partners, South West Water. Their task is to come up with innovative, eco-friendly solutions to deal with dispersing a ‘fatberg’ – a congealed mass in a sewer formed by non-biodegradable matter such as fat and wet wipes.

Transition Newton Abbot said they welcome partners from all sections of the Newton Abbot community to help them build a ‘massive’ Plastic-Free Newton Abbot campaign and put the town on the plastic-free Devon map.

The spokesperson added: ‘Devon has a lot to be proud of with around 40 towns and villages already involved. Right across the county communities are getting together to take action.

‘Come on Newton Abbot, let’s respond together. Let’s tackle this single-use plastics epidemic.’

To see the BAG IT film or join the campaign contact Betina from TNA at [email protected]