Our coasts will be cleaner, and wildlife better protected as the Labour Government signs into law a ban on the sale of plastic wet wipes, marking a major step forward in tackling plastic pollution which devastates our beaches and sea.
Wet wipes containing plastic are a growing source of pollution on our coast, when flushed, they can break down into microplastics that poison wildlife and enter the food chain.
A recent survey showed an average of 20 wet wipes littering every 100 metres of beach across the UK
UK Water research found that wet wipes contribute to 94% of sewer blockages, which cost water companies around £200 million to fix each year – a cost that is ultimately passed onto households through their water bills.
Commenting, Stephen Morgan MP for Portsmouth South said:
“Plastic wet wipes have for too long been choking our coastline.
Protecting our city’s precious natural environment is one of my top priorities which is why I’m proud to support this ban, which reflects the strength of support Portsmouth for cleaner beaches and water.
It’s a practical step forward that will make a real difference.”
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds added:
“This ban will put an end to plastic wet wipes which choke our sewers, litter our beaches and poison wildlife.
“It’s another example of the government taking strong, decisive action to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas.
“But we all have a role to play. Every wet wipe flushed down the toilet risks blocking sewers, causing pollution and pushing up household bills. The solution is simple: bin wet wipes, don’t flush them.”
Residents in Portsmouth can now take action by ensuring that any wet wipes, even if they are labelled as flushable, are put in the bin rather than flushed away, to reduce costly blockages and safeguard nature.
