Ban on plastic wet wipes to be introduced under new DAERA regulations

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has announced new legislation that will ban the sale and supply of wet wipes containing plastic in Northern Ireland, as part of a coordinated UK-wide approach to tackling plastic pollution.

The regulations — which include limited exemptions for business-to-business supply and medical use — will take effect in May 2027, following an 18-month transition period.

This will allow retailers time to clear existing stock and switch to plastic-free alternatives, many of which are already widely available.

The move comes in response to growing environmental concerns related to plastic and microplastic pollution. A recent report revealed that more than 30 billion wet wipes were placed on the UK market in 2021, with over 25 billion containing plastic.

Projections suggest that by 2033, UK consumption could rise to 49 billion, with 39 billion of these sold directly to consumers.

DAERA says the ban is designed to target domestic use, where effective alternatives already exist. Officials argue that removing plastic from everyday wet wipes will help cut down pollution, reduce waste going to landfill or incineration, and limit the harmful impact of litter on the marine environment and wildlife.

A UK-wide public consultation launched on 1 October 2023 showed strong public backing for the proposal, with a Summary of Responses published on 22 April 2024. DAERA says the ban aligns with the commitments set out in the Northern Ireland Environmental Improvement Plan.

Announcing the new rules, DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said:

“My department is informing people of these new regulations to give them time to change their habits when it comes to choosing these products over environmentally friendly alternatives.

“Improper disposal of wet wipes is having hugely negative consequences on our sewer system, on our beaches and in our waterways.

“Given the environmental harm caused by plastic and microplastic pollution, this ban represents a significant step toward a cleaner, healthier environment.”