A DETERMINED youngster has persuaded council chiefs to ban plastic bottles from East Renfrewshire’s schools.

Ten-year-old Emilia Hamilton began a campaign to end single-use plastic in local schools around seven weeks ago.

After her seven-year-old brother bought a plastic bottle of water from his school’s tuck shop, she was on a mission to implement change.

Emilia’s proud mum Trisha said: “She wondered why they were selling single-use plastic bottles in the school when they are taught the importance of saving the planet.

“After this discovery, she e-mailed her headteacher, followed by the council, who informed her that the decision to sell plastic in schools is to allow children the option of buying bottled water.”

However, the Netherlee Primary pupil could not agree with such a compromise to the planet.

Emelia began a petition on change.org and took her case to local councillors David Macdonald and Annette Ireland.

The councillors were “very supportive” and helped her draft a motion which she then presented to the local authority.

Emilia’s presentation was read out during a council meeting.

She stated: “By banning the sale of plastic water bottles we can not only make a big difference to the planet, we can set an example to all the other schools and councils in Scotland.

“It’s a small change but can make a big difference and I want a healthy planet to grow up in for me and my friends.”

Following the meeting, the motion was passed, with the council committed to engaging with teachers and pupils to eradicate single-use plastics in the area’s schools.

A spokesperson for East Renfrewshire Council said: “The motion was put forward by two councillors and was passed unanimously.”

Trisha, from Netherlee, added: “Emelia was over the moon with the news and she is so grateful to all the councillors for supporting her.

“I’m so proud of her for standing up for what she believes in and for having the courage to campaign for change.

“The councillors have been so supportive of her and she’s delighted that East Renfrewshire will now work towards implementing these changes.

“I can’t wait to see what she does next.”