Sale and supply of wet wipes containing plastic to be banned

“Improper disposal of wet wipes is having hugely negative consequences on our sewer system, on our beaches and in our waterways”

New regulations are due to come into force that will see the sale and supply of wet wipes containing plastic banned for the general public.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) said the new regulations, which is part of a coordinated UK-wide approach, will come into effect in May 2027 following an 18 month transition period. It follows a UK wide public consultation and aims to 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.

As part of the ban each UK nation will produce its own legislation and there will only be limited exemptions in it for business-to-business supply and medical use. The 18-month transition period is to allow retailers time to deplete existing stock and adopt plastic-free alternatives.

READ MORE: Government health warning issued to anyone using three types of wet wipesREAD MORE: Wet wipes containing plastic could soon be banned in Northern Ireland

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 Department says this action supports its commitment to reducing plastic pollution, as outlined in the NI Environmental Improvement Plan.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir 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.