Our goal is to maximise resource efficiency and minimise plastic waste, by following the principles of the waste hierarchy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. This includes moving away from a take, make, waste model and towards a circular economy for plastic. Banning wet wipes containing plastic will reduce plastic and microplastic pollution, particularly in our waters.
Type of Change
Voluntary.
Affected Stakeholders
- Manufacturers
- Retailers
- Consumers (short-term impact)
- General public
Exemptions for
- Medical purposes
- Industrial purposes
Changes
The Northern Ireland Executive, together with the UK Government, Welsh Government and Scottish Government, have taken the decision to proceed with legislation to ban the supply and sale of wet wipes containing plastic across the UK. There will be an 18-month transition period to allow manufacturers adequate time to transition to producing plastic-free wet wipes.
Status
The Northern Ireland Executive and the other UK nations published the Government Response to the joint Consultation on 22 April 2024. Summary of responses and government response - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Expected Timeline
By the end of 2024.