PLASTIC WET WIPES BANNED IN WALES

The new regulation aims to cut sewer blockages and pollution

- Sam Pyrah

The Welsh government has announced a ban on wet wipes containing plastic - the first of the UK nations to do so, after all four announced an intention to impose such a ban following a consultation in 2023.

The new regulation will come into force in December 2026. These products join a list of other items already prohibited in Wales under the Environmental Protection (Single Use Plastic Products) Act 2023, including plastic straws and cutlery, plastic-stemmed cotton buds, takeaway cups, lids and food containers, and plastic carrier bags.