Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 53
53
Accepted
Paragraph: 264
Wet wipes and other ‘unflushables’ are a major constituent of sewer blockages.
Conclusion
Wet wipes and other ‘unflushables’ are a major constituent of sewer blockages. Many householders are unaware that flushing anything other than the ‘3Ps’ (‘pee, poo and paper’) risks blocking sewers and could lead to a pollution incident. Better product labelling, introducing producer responsibility schemes and the use of behavioural science by water companies all have the potential to reduce blockages and the costs of clearing them.
Government response summary AI-generated
The government indicates this is already being addressed through the Guiding Principles for Drainage and Wastewater Management Plans, published in February 2022, which require water companies to work collaboratively with other Risk Management Authorities in developing solutions to drainage issues.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
264
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government · verbatim extract
Accepted
In the call for evidence, we sought views on a mandatory ‘flush-ability’ standard; mandatory labelling to indicate how wipes should be disposed of, an extended producer responsibility scheme; and a ban on wet wipes containing plastic with exemptions for medical purposes (as outlined in the Plastics (Wet Wipes) Bill). While there are currently no plans to ban the sale of disposable nappies, we recognise the issues associated with absorbent hygiene products (AHPs) such as nappies, including the environmental impact of plastics. In line with our Resources and Waste Strategy for England, we are considering the best approach to minimising the environmental impact of a range of products, including AHPs, taking on board the environmental and social impacts of the options available. There are a number of policy measures available to us, including standards and consumer information, as well as encouraging voluntary action by business. The Environment Act 2021 contains new powers that will enable us, where appropriate and subject to consultation, to introduce eco-design and consumer information requirements including labelling schemes that provide accurate information to consumers and drive the market towards more sustainable products. We believe the right approach for each product requires careful consideration taking account of various factors, for example, waste benefits versus energy usage. Work is nearing completion on an environmental assessment of washable and disposable absorbent hygiene products with the primary focus on nappies. This is looking at carbon and wider environmental impacts of washable and disposable products, disposal to landfill and incineration, and recycling options. There will also be a literature review covering other AHPs. The research will be published in due course, following peer review, and will help inform possible future action on nappies by Government and industry.
Read the full response on Parliament ↗