NorthLink cuts 200,000 single-use plastics from Northern Isles ferries

Northlink runs ferries between Aberdeen, Orkney and Shetland

NorthLink has reduced the amount of plastics used on its ferry services to and from the Northern Isles by more than 200,000 items each year.

Operator Serco said it made the move to reduce its environmental footprint.

It is replacing 87,000 disposable cups and 28,000 lids with compostable alternatives.

The company said that plastic teaspoons, food trays and portion pots for sauces would also also be removed from the services.

• Ferry operator to end plastic straw use

• CalMac to further reduce plastic waste

Northlink runs ferries between Aberdeen, Kirkwall and Lerwick, as well as the route between Scrabster and Stromness.

NorthLink announced a move away from plastics last year

Seumas Campbell, from Serco NorthLink, said: "Looking after the natural environment is such an important part of the service we provide.

"So we are passionate about minimising our impact on the world around us.

"The steps we have taken to remove single-use plastics are very positive and we will keep looking for more opportunities to reduce our environmental footprint."

'Attenborough effect'

Last year, NorthLink said it was replacing plastic straws with paper ones on all its sailings in an effort to tackle plastic pollution in seas and on beaches.

The move follows a drive from many organisations to reduce single-use plastic consumption because of the 'Attenborough effect.'

The veteran broadcaster's series, Blue Planet 2, highlighted the damaging impact plastic is having on the marine environment.

CalMac is also trying to reduce plastic waste

Last year Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) announced it would introduce reusable cups, jugs of milk and sauce dispensers to reduce plastic waste.

CalMac operates Clyde and Hebrides ferry services.