A new study has found that litter in the United Kingdom is dominated by plastics and drink packaging, with plastic bottles, straws, and cigarette butts being among the most common items.

The study, conducted by the University of Exeter, analyzed over 100,000 pieces of litter collected from beaches, parks, and other public spaces across the UK. The researchers found that plastics accounted for 70% of all litter, with drink packaging making up 35% of that total.

The most common plastic items found were plastic bottles, straws, and cigarette butts, followed by plastic bags, food wrappers, and bottle caps. Glass and metal were also found, but in much smaller quantities than plastic.

The researchers say that the findings highlight the need for reducing plastic pollution and improving waste management in the UK. They also recommend that people use reusable items, such as water bottles and shopping bags, to help reduce the amount of litter.

The study is published in the journal Environmental Pollution.