On Wednesday 24th August, the Environmental Audit Committee released its latest report into the study of microbeads and its environmental impact. Microbeads, a form of microplastic, are small plastic particles commonly found in cosmetic products. Studies have shown the growing impact on marine life, with the potential for significant harm to the marine environment. The report published by the Committee, of which Jo Churchill MP is a member, has called on the Government to deliver a total legislative ban on cosmetic and toiletry microbeads; as an avoidable environmental problem.
Commenting on the publication of the report, Jo Churchill MP said: “I strongly welcome the report published today, calling for a total legislative ban on the use of microbeads in cosmetics and toiletries. Evidence shows that 860 tonnes of microbeads are washed into the marine environment, from the UK every year. These plastics can cause serious harm; being ingested by marine wildlife and transferring chemicals to and from our waters.
It is paramount the UK addresses the challenges of microbeads as soon as possible, and a total ban on the use of microbeads is a first step to showing we are serious about our environmental futures.”
Already some companies have chosen to phase out microbeads and Waitrose has pledged that, by September 2016, it will no longer sell any branded cosmetic products containing microbeads. However, this commitment is not yet universal and we [the Committee] feel a full Government ban is the only adequate response to tackling the challenges of microbeads.”
The Committee has also recommended the Government draw up plans for assessing and tackling the wider implications of microplastics, which are found more commonly in clothing items and tyres.
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201617/cmselect/cmenvaud/179…