European Commission Adopts Restriction on Intentionally Added Microplastics

The European Commission took another major step to protect the environment by adopting measures that restrict microplastics intentionally added to products under the EU Chemical Legislation REACH. In this context, the sale of microplastics, intentionally added microplastics, and products that release these microplastics when used will be banned.

The adopted restriction broadly defines microplastics, covering all organic, insoluble, and degradation-resistant synthetic polymer particles below 5 millimeters. The purpose is to reduce emissions of intentional microplastics from as many products as possible. Thanks to the new rules it is expected to prevent the release of approximately half a million tons of microplastics into the environment.

Some examples of common products in the scope of the restriction are:

• The granular infill material used on artificial sport fields (The largest source of intentional microplastics in the environment);
• Cosmetics, where microplastics is used for multiple purposes, such as exfoliation or obtaining a specific texture, fragrance or colour;
• Detergents, fabric softeners, glitter, fertilisers, plant protection products, toys, medicines and medical devices.

Products that are used in industrial facilities or that do not release microplastics during their use are exempt from the sales ban; however, what is expected from the manufacturers of these products is to act in accordance with the instructions on how the product will be used and disposed of to prevent microplastic emissions.

Source: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_4581