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Written question asked by Andrew Selous (Conservative) on Monday, 25 March 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 15 April 2024. It was answered by Robbie Moore (Conservative) on Monday, 15 April 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, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of introducing a technical standard for microplastic filters in washing machines; and whether his Department has had recent discussions with industry representatives on developing a technical standard.

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 and encourage their use.

Defra commissioned an evidence assessment to understand the efficiencies, costs and benefits of installing filters in washing machines to trap microplastic fibres shredded from clothing during washing cycles. The report showed that filters demonstrated a range of efficiencies and costs associated with them. We recommended that filter manufacturers collaborate with the washing machine industry to develop and implement standardised tests to provide unequivocal performance data for the relevant government departments to consider. We await industry’s proposals.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
20219
Session
2023-24
Subjects
Standards Washing machines Microplastics
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk