Living close to the beautiful Langdale Moor, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of careless actions. Recently, a preventable fire ravaged this precious landscape, threatening not only the homes and livelihoods of those residing nearby but also decimating crucial wildlife habitats. The destruction left in the wake of this disaster is a sharp reminder of the dangers posed by disposable BBQs.

These single-use items may seem convenient, yet they are a significant hazard. More than 4,000 hectares of land in the UK are burned due to wildfires every year, with many incidents sparked by improper barbecue use, according to the UK government statistics. Besides fire risks, disposable BBQs lead to excessive littering. They are often left behind in parks and recreational areas, harming the environment and endangering wildlife with their non-biodegradable components.

By banning disposable BBQs, we can drastically reduce the risk of wildfires, conserve our cherished natural spaces, and protect both local communities and wildlife. Instead, sustainable solutions like portable gas stoves, which are reusable and safer, should be encouraged. It's time for retailers to stop selling these harmful products and for local governments to implement strict regulations against their use in vulnerable areas.

Join me in urging policymakers to take swift action. Sign this petition to ban disposable BBQs and protect our communities and ecosystems from further harm. Together, we can make a difference.