Council is partnering with local and global supporters to minimise sewer flooding and pollution through a push for better labelling on all wipes and personal hygiene products. With some companies falsely labelling products as flushable, manufacturers are urged to provide their customers with clear and unambiguous information about appropriate disposal methods, with clear ‘Do Not Flush’ labelling on all wipes and personal hygiene products.

Tests undertaken by Sydney Water and Choice have confirmed wet wipes, whether branded ‘flushable’ or not, do not break down as claimed and should never be flushed down the toilet.

“Looking into the future, we hope that this initiative will see manufactures using new innovative materials that pass the technical standards that have been developed and agreed upon by the water and wastewater industry,” general manager, Joseph Vescio said.

Only the 3Ps (pee, poo and toilet paper), should be flushed. All other products need to be disposed of responsibly in an appropriate bin. This includes, but is not limited to, personal wipes, baby wipes, make-up wipes, kitchen and bathroom cleaning wipes, paper towel, facial tissues and all personal hygiene products.

“Changing the habits of our community and visitors is the first step we as a Council can take in minimising the environmental impacts caused by flushing products that are unable to breakdown. Sewer flooding and pollution comes as a cost not only to the environment, but to our ratepayers who bear the cost of ongoing clean-ups and repairs,” Mr Vescio said.

Those wishing to show their support can go on line to the Choice website www.choice.com.au/flushbusters to join the campaign against false ‘flushable’ claims.