News confirming the government will this year introduce legislation to ban wet wipes containing plastic has been welcomed by MP Bob Seely.
Wet wipes containing plastic break down into microplastics over time, which can be harmful to human health and disrupt ecosystems. A ban will reduce both plastic pollution and the volume of microplastics entering wastewater treatment sites and ending up on beaches and in waterways.
Mr Seely said: “This is very welcome news and builds on action already taken by the government to tackle plastic pollution and clean up our environment including banning some single-use plastics and introducing a charge for single-use carrier bags.
“This legislation takes things a step further. It’s a small change but it’s part of a package of wider measures that together make a difference.
“Anything we can do, no matter how small, to prevent plastic from entering our waters in the first place is a positive step forward.
"It's especially important for coastal communities such as the Isle of Wight because we don't want plastic washing up on our shores."
The move comes as part of the Government’s Plan for Water launched in April 2023 which set out measures to transform and integrate the water system, address sources of pollution and boost water supplies through more investment, tighter regulation, and more effective enforcement.
A consultation launched by the government last Autumn showed overwhelming support for the proposed ban with 95% of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing with the proposals.
The legislation for England will be brought forward ahead of Summer recess, with Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales following by the Autumn. The ban will be introduced via secondary legislation under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
