The UK Government has announced plans to ban the sale and manufacture of cosmetics and personal care products containing tiny pieces of plastic, commonly known as ‘microbeads’.

Each year billions of tiny beads end up in the world’s seas from a range of products such as face scrubs, toothpastes and shower gels. The beads build up in the marine environment and can be swallowed by sea life, including fish and crustaceans.

A consultation will be launched later this year with the intention of banning the sale and manufacture of cosmetics and personal care products containing microbeads that harm the marine environment.

At the same time, evidence will be gathered on the extent of the environmental impacts of microbeads found elsewhere, such as in household and industrial cleaning products, before considering what more can be done in future to tackle other plastics, for example microfibers, which enter the marine environment.

Announcing the proposed ban, Environment Secretary Andrea Leadsom said:

“Most people would be dismayed to know the face scrub or toothpaste they use was causing irreversible damage to the environment, with billions of indigestible plastic pieces poisoning sea creatures.”

“Adding plastic to products like face washes and body scrubs is wholly unnecessary when harmless alternatives can be used.”

“This is the next step in tackling microplastics in our seas following the success of the 5p plastic bag charge, and I look forward to working with industry and environmental groups.”

“This government is committed to its promise to be the first generation ever to leave the environment in a better state than it inherited, and together we can bring an end to these harmful plastics clogging up our oceans.”

Twenty-five UK cosmetics and toiletries companies, such as Unilever, have already taken steps to voluntarily phase out microbeads from their products. Waitrose has announced they will stop stocking such products by the end of September.

Manufacturers are exploring natural alternatives, including nut shells, salt and sugar, which have the same exfoliating properties but do not pose a threat to the environment.

The government will consult industry, environmental groups and other relevant parties to establish how and when a ban could be introduced, aiming to change legislation next year.

The UK water companies have welcomed the prospect of a ban - Water UK, the body which represents UK water utilities, commented:

"Water UK has been a strong supporter of the Marine Conservation Society's 'scrub it out' campaign and is pleased to see the government taking the lead on this important topic."

"Water companies work hard to maintain the quality of the UK's waters and will continue to engage with the government and Environment Agency to help reduce microplastic pollution."