Wet wipes on their way out?

Blockages. Water UK estimates that wet wipes make up 93% of the so-called “fatbergs” which block sewers in the UK. Not only are the plastic-containing wipes a costly menace to the waste water system, they’re causing pollution to our watercourses and oceans.

What’s being done about it? Along with other single-use plastics, the government is asking industry to find alternative materials for their manufacture or face sanctions. In the meantime it says it is working with manufacturers and retailers to ensure that packaging includes the correct disposal instructions.

Note. There’s a complication in that “correct disposal” could include flushing - for the time being at least. Some products, particularly those marketed as moist toilet sheets, carry a claim that they can be safely flushed away. Although water companies complain that all wipes contribute to the problem, there’s no move yet to ban the sale of flushable wipes.

Tip. If you use wet wipes of any type in your business, even if the labelling makes claims that they’re flushable, instruct staff to dispose of them in the bin. This is both good for the environment and your soil pipes.