England Moves Ahead With Plastic Wet Wipe Ban

Quick Smiles:

• England is banning plastic wet wipes to protect rivers and reduce pollution.
• The law aims to curb microplastics and prevent sewer blockages caused by ‘fatbergs.’
• Environmental groups and retailers applaud the move toward a healthier planet.

England is set to phase out the sale and supply of wet wipes containing plastic, following new legislation signed to tackle pollution in waterways and coastal habitats. The government says this ban will help reduce microplastic pollution and protect wildlife while also addressing the major fatbergs clogging sewers.

A recent survey revealed an average of 20 wet wipes litter every 100 metres of UK beach, underscoring their widespread impact on the environment. When disposed of improperly, these wipes break down into microplastics that enter the food chain and harm animals.

“This ban will put an end to plastic wet wipes which choke our sewers, litter our beaches and poison wildlife,” said environment secretary Emma Reynolds.

Retailers have already made progress, with some stores removing plastic-containing wipes ahead of the new rules. Businesses in England have until spring 2027 to comply, and similar steps are in motion in Wales and Spain.

The scale of the problem is significant, with wet wipes contributing to 94% of sewer blockages and costing UK water companies about £200 million annually. Many people know about the issues, yet a sizeable portion still flushes them.

“The ban on plastics in wet wipes is an important step forward in tackling one of the biggest challenges on the sewer network,” said Stephanie Cawley, director of customer operations at Severn Trent.

Environmental leaders see this as progress but encourage broader action to reduce plastic pollution overall. Improved labelling and public awareness will be key, as alternative options are widely available and clarity about disposal remains essential.

Retailers say the move will create fairer competition and help communities and the planet thrive. The legislation marks a hopeful shift toward cleaner waterways and healthier habitats for all.

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