To the editor,

The Responsible Flushing Alliance (RFA) recently published an opinion piece re-emphasizing the importance of California’s Wet Wipes Labeling Law, AB 818, which our organizations jointly sponsored and negotiated with industry representatives. The law binds wipes manufacturers to adding a “Do Not Flush” symbol on packaging for non-flushable wipes. The bill also requires a consumer education campaign, led by wipes manufacturers, to promote adherence to the “Do Not Flush” symbol when it comes to their products. In her op-ed, RFA President Lara Wyss cited a 2022 survey in which respondents showed a low understanding of proper flushing habits and pledged to step-up RFA’s own education programs in 2023 to increase consumer awareness of the symbol and what not to flush. 

RFA’s assessment hints at a larger issue: Too many consumers are still flushing non-flushable wipes, a problem for which wastewater operators are keenly aware. This knowledge gap could easily be closed by the wipes industry itself. All wipes manufacturers should join RFA in their consumer education efforts, formally acknowledging this improper disposal of their own products and actively working to influence a decrease in harmful fatbergs and clogs. In fact, AB 818 (Bloom) of 2021 requires their participation in these efforts. Simply complying with the labeling of non-flushable wipes is not enough to guide consumers and deter improper flushing of non-flushable wipes. 

As the data collected by RFA suggests, there is still a long way to go in educating consumers about the dangers of improper flushing. However, RFA’s efforts to provide better and more comprehensive information have already helped turn the tide toward a more aware and knowledgeable base. To prevent a lapse in this progress, the entire industry must be involved and bring their considerable resources to bear on this effort. Working with local agencies, product manufacturers are in the best position to help educate consumers and ultimately reduce the impact of wipes on critical public infrastructure. Don’t squander this opportunity: Stand with RFA to educate California along with other leaders in your industry. 

Heidi Sanborn, executive director, National Stewardship Action Council

Adam Link, executive director, California Association of Sanitation Agencies