Plastic free wet wipes are an essential consideration for all manufacturers and retailers as we head into 2024. In October 2023, a consultation on banning wet wipes containing plastic across the UK was launched under plans to tackle plastic pollution and clean up the UK’s waterways. It’s an essential step towards needed conservation and sustainability of our planet and the bid to become a plastic free nation.
The potential ban shouldn’t come as a shock. Wrongfully flushed wipes contribute to 94% of sewer blockages. With many plastic wipes not fully recyclable, the components are unable to break down. This leaves them to rot in nature and overflowing landfill. This contributes to the overarching problem of the destruction of our natural environment.
This week, the Guardpack team take a look at the government proposals and how we can help with the issue of pollution.
The Proposed Ban
The proposed plastic wet wipe ban originates from a wider initiative called Plan for Water – offering a solution to improve England’s water quality. This initiative has been developed by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. When it comes to wipes, the terms are simple and clear. The manufacture, supply and sale of plastic-containing wet wipes across the UK will be banned for good.
The outcome of the ban is to encourage water companies to invest in the initiative, as well as tougher enforcement of the penalties for those who are directly contributing to pollution.
The Effects
Flushing wet wipes can have a detrimental impact on the country’s plumbing. In fact, it costs the government an average of £100 million each year to fix around the UK. The disposal of wipes containing plastic has a negative effect on our planet because the plastics don’t break down; ultimately blocking up pipes or spreading harmful microplastics and chemicals across rivers, beaches and landfills over hundreds of years.
This combination is harmful to the environment and human health alike. Banning wet wipes containing plastic will help alleviate these issues. It will also reduce the volume of microplastics entering wastewater treatment plants when wrongly flushed.
Getting Ahead
Many major companies, including Boots, Tesco and Aldi have already stopped selling unsustainable wipes, in favour of biodegradable wet wipes. It’s inevitable that countless other retailers and traders will follow this trend, even if the ban doesn’t go ahead.
With many plastic free wet wipe alternatives now available, and working just as effectively as the plastic duplicate, the ban benefits seem to outweigh any doubts. It would be questionable for retailers not to capitalise on this necessary action. It’s clear consumers are willing and wanting to use biodegradable products. Even in 2021, A Call for Evidence in England found that 96% of respondents supported a ban on wet wipes containing plastic. The government has recently stated it will work alongside the industry to develop environmentally friendly alternatives to wet wipes.
The Solution
Should the ban go ahead, plastic free wet wipes are the only solution to enable continual wet wipe supply. At Guardpack, we strongly believe in the use of sustainable alternatives to plastic wipe and sachet products. We provide our customers with a wide range of materials, including biodegradable and sustainable fabrics.
Our clients are always actively encouraged to opt for our plastic-free material – 100% viscose and fully biodegradable – alongside our recyclable laminate packaging. As an expert wet wipe manufacturer and supplier, we strive to stay ahead of the curve and have also taken the necessary steps to transition our mywipe range over to biodegradable fabrics too.
Ready to Invest in Plastic Free Wet Wipes?
With the consultation now closed, we’re eager to receive the results (and will of course, keep our customers updated!) Do you feel strongly about reducing the pollution of the UK’s waterways and the welfare of our environment? If so, please consider us as your wet wipe and sachet manufacturer. We love nothing more than partnering with like-minded companies to achieve an end result that not only benefits your brand, but our precious planet.
Would like to find out more about our biodegradable, plastic free wet wipes? We’d love to hear from you. 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.
