UK-wide ban on plastic-containing wet wipes to be completed with Wales joining

Topic: UK BAN ON WET WIPES CONTAINING PLASTIC

Date of publication: 07/02/2025

On February 7, 2025, Wales notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its intention to ban plastic-containing wet wipes, aligning with measures already adopted by England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in the second half of 2024.

What’s new?

On February 7, 2025, Wales formally notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) about its forthcoming prohibition on plastic-containing wet wipes. This notification completes the UK-wide implementation of the ban, following similar measures already initiated by England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland during 2024.

Wales has taken a different regulatory approach compared to other UK nations. Rather than creating standalone legislation, Welsh authorities have chosen to amend their existing Environmental Protection (Single-Use Plastic Products) (Wales) Act 2023 to incorporate the wet wipes ban. This legislative amendment expands the Act’s coverage to include wet wipes containing plastic materials.

What now?

With Wales finalizing its regulatory approach, the UK now has a comprehensive nationwide framework addressing plastic-containing wet wipes. This completed ban will significantly impact manufacturers and retailers of cosmetic and personal care products.

Companies producing wet wipes for the UK market need to accelerate development of plastic-free alternatives across their product ranges, including baby wipes, cosmetic wipes, personal hygiene products and cleaning wipes.

References:

The Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Wet Wipes) (Wales) Regulations 2025

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