The UK government has announced plans to ban wet wipes containing plastic in an effort to protect the country’s rivers from pollution. The move comes after years of campaigning against the products, which have been blamed for causing blockages in the sewer system and littering beaches.
Environment secretary Steve Barclay stated that the ban on plastic wet wipes is a “step change” to protect waterways from pollution. However, the Labour party has criticized the government for not going far enough and called for a full ban on the manufacture of plastic wet wipes.
The ban follows overwhelming public support for the move, with more than 90% of people in favor of a ban in a recent consultation. Some retailers, such as Boots, Aldi, and Tesco, have already taken steps to ban wet wipes containing plastics from their stores.
Campaigners have welcomed the government’s decision but have urged ministers to go further by tackling all single-use plastic products through further bans and mandated reuse and refill targets.
Legislation is expected to be introduced before MPs break up for their summer break in July. This move marks a significant step towards reducing plastic pollution and protecting the environment for future generations.