Plastic wet wipes could be banned under a new plan for water. The Government says it wants to see more investment from water companies, stronger regulation and tougher enforcement for those who pollute to ensure a clean and plentiful supply of water for the future.
Environmental campaigners say plastic wet wipes can cause long-term problems for sea creatures and the marine environment. They can also cause problems in wastewater systems and add to plastic pollution.
The Plan for Water also includes a consultation on a ban of plastic in wet wipes and restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foam, textiles, cleaning products, paints and varnishes. Other proposals include giving farmers £34 million to improve pollution from slurry as well as £10 million to fund more on-farm reservoirs and better irrigation equipment.
