Because they contain plastic and/or viscose components that do not disintegrate and block sewage systems.

Blockages that cost millions of euros a year and can end up in the sea, becoming a source of microplastics.

According to the European Commission, wipes are more polluting to our beaches and oceans than plastic bags.

New European regulations will apply extended liability to those wipes brands that continue to use plastic and/or viscose components in the manufacture of their products. As a result, they will have to pay an annual fee to contribute to the cost of cleaning up sewage networks, oceans and beaches.