The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
(DAERA) is introducing new regulations to prohibit the sale and
supply of wet wipes containing plastic, with limited exemptions
for business-to-business supply and medical use.
The ban is a coordinated UK-wide approach, with each nation
introducing its own legislation.
A recent report found that over 30 billion wet wipes were placed
on the UK market in 2021 - more than 25 billion of which
contained plastic. Projections suggest that by 2033, UK
consumption could reach 49 billion wet wipes, with 39 billion
sold directly to consumers.
The aim of these regulations is to restrict the use of wet wipes
containing plastic in domestic settings, where suitable
alternatives already exist. This measure will help reduce plastic
and microplastic pollution, cut down on waste sent to landfill or
incineration, and lessen the impact of litter on the marine
environment and animal health.
The ban will come into effect in May 2027, following an 18-month
transition period to allow retailers time to deplete existing
stock and adopt plastic-free alternatives. Many such alternatives
are already available on the market.
A UK-wide public consultation launched on 1 October 2023 received
strong support for the proposed ban, a Summary of Responses was
published on 22 April 2024.
This action supports the Department's commitment to reducing
plastic pollution, as outlined in the NI Environmental
Improvement Plan.
DAERA Minister said: “My department
is informing people of these new regulations to give them time to
change their habits when it comes to choosing these products over
environmentally friendly alternatives.
“Improper disposal of wet wipes is having hugely negative
consequences on our sewer system, on our beaches and in our
waterways.
“Given the environmental harm caused by plastic and
microplastic pollution, this ban represents a significant step
toward a cleaner, healthier environment.”
Notes to editors:
- Summary of responses available to read here: Summary of Responses.
