Home / Environment / Scotland Bans Plastic Wet Wipes Next Year!
Scotland Bans Plastic Wet Wipes Next Year!
13 Feb
Summary
- Scotland will ban plastic wet wipes starting August 11, 2027.
- The ban aims to reduce plastic pollution and sewer blockages.
- Scottish Water faces 35,000 sewer blockages annually costing £10 million.
Starting August 11, 2027, Scotland will implement a ban on wet wipes containing plastic. This regulation aligns with similar upcoming bans in Wales in December and England and Northern Ireland in May next year. The Scottish Government's decision stems from a 2023 consultation where 93% of respondents supported the measure.
Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin emphasized that plastic-laden wet wipes are unnecessary single-use items with eco-friendly alternatives available. She highlighted their contribution to marine litter and harm to wildlife when not disposed of correctly. This ban supports the Marine Litter Strategy and follows previous restrictions on items like plastic-stemmed cotton buds and straws.
Scottish Water supports the ban, citing approximately 35,000 sewer blockages annually, largely caused by wet wipes, costing the utility about £10 million. Environmental groups, like the Marine Conservation Society, view the ban as a crucial step in reducing sewage-related waste on Scotland's coastlines, where volunteers have found thousands of wet wipes.
