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Written question asked by Luke Pollard (Labour) on Friday, 16 February 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 20 February 2024. It was answered by Robbie Moore (Conservative) on Thursday, 29 February 2024 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


Microplastics: Washing Machines

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether his Department has had discussions with businesses on installing microfibre filters in washing machines.

Answer

In Defra’s Plan for Water, there is a commitment for industry and businesses to develop low cost, effective microfibre filters in washing machines to capture microfibre and encourage their effective use.

This approach is informed by the evidence that shows that there is not a sufficient benefit to the environment for legislating the installation of microfibre-capturing filters in all new washing machines. Recent analyses showed an estimated increased cost from between £30 to £122 for a microfibre filter per machine and user behaviour around disposal of captured microfibres can make render the filters ineffective.

We have conveyed this to industry colleagues, and we look forward to receiving a response which will help us to progress the issue.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
14399
Session
2023-24
Subjects
Pollution control Washing machines Microplastics
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk