Green and white plastic recycling bags will now be on their way out, being replaced by more green plastic bins.

After a public consultation that lasted 12 weeks, the decision to get rid of the recycling bags has been made by South Gloucestershire Council.

On their website, the council said: "The key focus of the proposal to replace the bags over time is to reduce the environmental impact of collections.

"The current bags are not themselves recyclable and as they deteriorate over time they release plastic fragments into the environment.

"Furthermore, they are manufactured overseas and have to be shipped to the UK.

"Therefore, in the interests of reducing plastic waste, improving sustainability and protecting our environment, it was proposed to discontinue use of the bags.

"The green recycling boxes are also made from recycled plastic; they are much sturdier, which means they do not fragment and when damaged beyond use they can be recycled again with rigid/hard plastics.

"The boxes are also safer and easier for our collection crews to use because they can be hooked onto the side of collection vehicle to be emptied."

It is believed that the council could also save around £100,000 per year by removing the bags.

Some residents already use boxes for all recycling, but for those who still have bags, when they break down and need to replaced they will be given boxes.