The UK government has unveiled plans to ban wet wipes containing plastic in a bid to combat plastic pollution and improve water quality. Under the government’s Plan for Water, this measure aims to address the issue of micro plastic pollution and its harmful effects on the environment and human health.

Wet wipes containing plastic break down into microplastics over time, posing a significant threat to our waterways. By prohibiting the sale, supply, and manufacture of wet wipes containing plastic, the government seeks to reduce the volume of microplastics entering wastewater treatment plants when incorrectly flushed.

Several major retailers, including Boots, Tesco, and Aldi, have already taken action by removing plastic-containing wet wipes from their shelves and offering alternatives. The proposed ban would further encourage retailers to provide only plastic-free wet wipes to consumers, building on these positive steps.

To gather public opinion and ensure a collaborative approach, a joint consultation with the devolved administrations has been launched. The consultation seeks views on the ban and aims to address public concerns about plastic pollution in waterways. Notably, a Call for Evidence conducted in England in 2021 revealed that 96% of respondents supported a ban on plastic-containing wet wipes.

Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey emphasised the unnecessary environmental pollution caused by wet wipes containing plastic. This ban is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to combat plastic pollution, following earlier actions such as the ban on microbeads in personal care products and the reduction of plastic bag usage.

The consultation fulfils the commitments outlined in the Plan for Water, which includes launching a public consultation on the ban and collaborating with industry stakeholders to ensure the availability of plastic-free alternatives. The government’s overarching objective is to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste by 2042, demonstrating their commitment to leading the global fight against plastic pollution.

Water UK Chief Executive, David Henderson, welcomed the government’s plan, highlighting the significant issues caused by flushed wet wipes, including blockages, overflow spills, and environmental contamination. Water UK’s Bin the Wipe campaign encourages responsible disposal of wet wipes in bins rather than flushing them, emphasising the collective responsibility of individuals in protecting the environment.

Retailer Boots UK has already taken proactive steps by removing plastic-containing wet wipes from their stores and online platforms. Natalie Gourlay, Head of Environmental Social Governance at Boots UK, expressed support for the government’s action and stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve sustainability goals.

The UK government has a proven track record in tackling plastic pollution. Microbeads have been banned in rinse-off personal care products, and a Plastic Packaging Tax has been introduced to promote the use of recycled plastic. The successful implementation of the single-use carrier bag charge has significantly reduced plastic bag consumption.

This latest announcement follows the Environment Secretary’s previous correspondence with wet wipe producers and retailers, regarding the labelling of wet wipes as “flushable.” The government aims to address the misleading information that encourages consumers to flush wipes, contributing to sewer blockages and environmental damage.

The consultation period will run for six weeks until November 25, 2023.