Plastic pollution has become one of the greatest challenges we face today, and some believe Ecobricks are the solution to this problem.

In total, 91 per cent of plastic is not recycled, according to National Geographic - but programmes like David Attenborough’s Blue Planet have highlighted the issue of single-use plastics.

Ecobricks prevent plastic from entering the ecosystem, and are created by packing clean and dry used plastic into a bottle until it is dense enough to be used for building.

Annie Russell, from Stroud, has encouraged others to start making Ecobricks through the community Facebook page Nailsworth Chat & Information.

“I often encourage others to think about changing their habits,” she explained

“You can fit an incredible amount of plastic in them - I’ve got a big bag full at the moment for my new ecobrick.”

 

Annie filled her first ecobrick with carrier bags full of plastic

The bricks first came to prominence in October last year when they took the internet by storm - although the movement was founded in 2009 by Canadian artist Russell Maier.

They can be used in the construction of schools and homes - but 99 per cent of the bricks are used for things like furniture, garden decorations and community projects.

You can follow Stroud's ecobrick movement on Facebook at facebook.com/groups

For more information see ecobricks.org

 

A map of official ecobrick drop-off points (C) Google Maps

Here is a list of other ecobrick drop-off points:

Stroud: Cotswold Way in Ryeford or Margaret Hills

Kings Stanley: Stanley Mills

Wotton-under-Edge: Wortley Terrace

Cheltenham: Cotswold Alpacas in Korinn Farm

Upton St Leonards: Upton St Leonards C of E Primary School

If we have missed any ecobrick collection points and you would like them to be included please email jaye.mcgowan@newsquest.co.uk.