Johnson & Johnson will cease the sale of plastic cotton buds in over half of the world in a bid to reduce marine pollution, according to a report published by The Independent.

The company will now produce cotton buds with a paper-based stick, after it was revealed that plastic cotton buds are one of the most common forms of litter found on beaches.

“We commend Johnson & Johsnon for leading this change in product material, it is an important part of the solution to the growing problem of plastic pollution in our seas,” Dr Clare Cavers of Fidra told The Independent.