Home / Environment / UK Bans Plastic-Containing Wet Wipes to Reduce Sewage Blockages
UK Bans Plastic-Containing Wet Wipes to Reduce Sewage Blockages
13 Nov
Summary
- Wet wipe ban introduced as private members bill in 2021
- Ban to take effect in Spring 2027, making wipes more biodegradable
- Wet wipes create "fatbergs" that block sewers and pollute waterways
In a move to address the growing environmental damage caused by plastic-containing wet wipes, the UK government has confirmed a nationwide ban on such products, set to take effect in Spring 2027.
The policy was originally introduced as a private members bill in November 2021 by MP Fleur Anderson, who has been a long-standing campaigner on this issue. The ban is intended to remove plastic from wet wipes, making them more biodegradable and reducing the persistent pollution caused by flushed wipes.
Wet wipes have been wreaking havoc on the UK's sewer systems and waterways, creating massive "fatbergs" that block drainage and clog up rivers and seas. According to Thames Water, the utility company removes an estimated 3.8 billion wipes from its network each year, at a cost of over £18 million.
With the upcoming ban, major retailers like Boots and Tesco, who have already committed to plastic-free wipes, will now be joined by all other companies in meeting these new environmental standards. Supporters of the ban, including Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, have hailed it as a crucial step in combating the scourge of plastic pollution.
