The oil we use to make plastics is derived almost entirely from the compressed buried remains of microscopic aquatic algae and bacteria. Energy from the sun, which fuelled the growth of these tiny organisms many millions of years ago, has been converted into the liquid energy which we rely on to fuel our 21st century lifestyles. Careless disposal has resulted in the items pictured - a balloon, plastic bottles, a sanitary towel and a tampon applicator - being returned to the North Sea and then cast up by the tide on our beaches. Enjoying a special ability to be used for just a few minutes and then to survive for eternity (especially in the marine environment), these artefacts of stored sunshine are iconic symbols of our age.

Plastics, like diamonds, are forever...