Ban the use of bio-beads in water treatment works

Background

Ban the use of bio-beads in sewage and water treatment facilities, and enforce strict regulations to ensure no further environmental contamination occurs during the transition.

Additional details

Bio-bead spills can cause serious pollution emergencies. In October 2025 tonnes of microplastic beads were released from the Eastbourne treatment works and washed up along the three-mile stretch of Camber Sands, which includes a Site of Special Scientific Interest. We are concerned that dead seals, porpoises, swans and other marine wildlife could be linked to bio-bead spills. These bio-beads are microplastics and used across the UK.

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