According to the Waterlooville company, the substitute, Polyethylene (PE), is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative lightweight banner material.

Once printed on,  it is long-lasting and is suitable for both long- and short-term campaigns and events.

The company said PE retains its eco-friendly credentials even when printed on because it uses solvent-free UV ink, conserves resources and diverts waste from landfills.

Dom Short, director at GTMS, said; "Green credentials and products are not just for the environmentally friendly, but are also a keen favourite for the budget conscious too.

"Sustainability makes good business sense and is a message made for tougher times, which is why we are aiming to reduce our PVC output by 25% by this time next year."