It’s now been one year since the government confirmed it will be moving forward with the plastic wet wipe ban. With the draft statutory agreement published – Environmental Protection (Wet Wipes Containing Plastic) (England) Regulations 2024 – this necessary initiative aims to tackle plastic pollution, particularly the microplastics that harm our waterways and ecosystems.
If not already, it’s important that suppliers and brands proactively adapt to this significant regulatory change as soon as possible in order to ensure compliance. To help brands navigate this transition successfully, Guardpack have put together this blog post outlining what businesses should consider during this time:
Review and Evaluate Product Lines
Conduct a comprehensive audit of your current wet wipe products to identify those containing plastic materials. Collaborate with your research and development teams to determine changes to these products using approved, sustainable materials. For complete clarity, sustainable alternatives, such as those made from viscose, lyocell, and cotton, are not included in the plastic wet wipe ban. Also excluded are materials in medical devices and those used in healthcare and business settings for operational purposes.This transition not only ensures compliance ready for next year, but also aligns with the growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly products.
Revise Packaging and Labelling
As you reformulate your products, update packaging and labelling to reflect the new, sustainable materials. Clear labelling that highlights the absence of plastic can enhance your brand’s appeal to eco-conscious consumers. Ensure that disposal instructions are prominently displayed to educate consumers on proper disposal methods, thereby minimising environmental impact. For more on how Guardpack can help with this, click here.
Educate and Engage Consumers
Develop marketing campaigns to inform consumers about the changes to your products, how you’re adhering to the plastic wet wipe ban and the environmental benefits of these modifications. Transparency about your sustainability efforts will strengthen brand loyalty and attract new customers who prioritise eco-friendly products and brands.
Train and Prepare Your Team
Ensure that your staff are well-informed about the upcoming changes and the steps your company is taking to comply. Training programs can equip your team to handle customer inquiries effectively and to promote the benefits of the new product formulations. This should form part of CSR and is a positive message to promote to the market.
Additionally, be sure to stay abreast of any further developments related to the ban and other environmental regulations. This proactive approach can help you anticipate future changes and adapt accordingly.
Partner with A Reputable Manufacturer
Given these important regulatory changes, aligning with a manufacturer that is ahead of the curve and already prioritises sustainability and compliance is crucial at this stage to ensure a smooth product manufacturing transition.
Guardpack has been at the forefront of the movement towards plastic-free wet wipes, anticipating the ban and adapting our product offerings accordingly, way ahead of time. We have been proactive in offering our customers biodegradable and sustainable fabric options, including 100% viscose, for many years now. At Guardpack, our partners can rest assured that our commitment to sustainability is unwavering, meaning that your products not only comply with impending regulations but also meet the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible options.
Collaborative Approach
Guardpack values partnerships with like-minded companies that are committed to reducing environmental impact. We want to help your business adapt to sustainable change. By choosing to work with us, we promise high-quality, plastic free wet wipes, over 25 years of expertise and guaranteed full compliance with new legislation to ensure minimal disruption to supply and commerce.
Transition Now
With a start date anticipated as early as March 2026, now is the time to get ahead of the upcoming plastic wet wipe ban. By understanding the regulations, reformulating products, educating consumers, and partnering with forward-thinking manufacturers like Guardpack, businesses can not only ensure compliance but also enhance their market position as leaders in sustainability.
Embracing these changes proactively will contribute to a healthier planet, align with the evolving values of consumers and ensure seamless transition in advance.
For more information about our plastic free wet wipes, get in touch with Guardpack today by filling out our contact form, emailing us at trade@guardpack.co.uk, or speak to one of the team today on 01245 505807. We look forward to hearing from you!
