The UK has launched an initiative to phase out plastic-containing wet wipes. Northern Ireland, Scotland and England are first in adopting the ban.
On 1 November 2024, Northern Ireland notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its intent to enforce a ban on selling and supplying wet wipes containing plastic. The regulation targets all single-use wet wipes, including those used in personal care products, such as baby wipes, facial wipes, and sheet masks, to address their significant environmental harm.
Key provisions and exemptions to the wet wipes ban
The regulations make it an offence for businesses to supply wet wipes containing plastic to end users, with penalties including fines. However, the law includes exemptions in cases where no suitable alternative exists:
- Registered pharmacies: Pharmacies are exempt under strict conditions, such as hiding plastic-based wipes from customers’ view and only providing them upon request.
- Medical use: The regulations permit the supply of plastic-based wipes for medical purposes or when dispensed by healthcare professionals.
- Business supply: Plastic wet wipes can still be provided to businesses.
UK-wide commitment to a plastic-free future
This regulation is part of a broader UK initiative to phase out plastic-containing wet wipes.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) launched a UK-wide consultation in October 2023, seeking input from stakeholders on the impact of banning plastic wipes on businesses, consumers, and potential alternatives. An overwhelming 95% of respondents supported a complete ban.
The Government has since confirmed a phased approach.
In April 2024, the English Government notified the WTO of a draft regulation adopting the ban, followed by Scotland in July 2024. Wales will develop its legislation to enforce the prohibition in a timely manner. Regulations are expected by the end of 2024 with the ban due to come into force 18 months later.
While a ban on UK sales and supply is moving forward, manufacturing for export remains allowed.
However, the governments of all four UK nations will continue to encourage manufacturers to move to a position where all their wet wipes are plastic free, e.g. cellulose-based.
References
WTO (2024). Draft Environmental Protection (Wet Wipes Containing Plastic) (Scotland) Regulations. Retrieved on 23 July 2024.
WTO (2024). Draft Environmental Protection (Wet Wipes Containing Plastic) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2025. Retrieved on 05 November 2024.
Gov.scot. (2024). Ban on wet wipes containing plastic. Retrieved on 23 July 2024.
Leave a Reply