European Commission Announces New Microplastics Measures

European Commission Announces New Microplastics Measures The European Commission announced that new measures restricting intentionally added microplastics in products have been adopted under the EU chemical legislation REACH. The new rules will prevent approximately half a million tonnes of microplastics from being released into the environment. In this way, the sale of microplastics and products to which microplastics are intentionally added and which release these particles during use will be banned. Where properly justified, derogations and transition periods will be applied to allow parties to comply with the new rules.   The restriction, which features a broad microplastics definition, covers all synthetic polymer particles smaller than five millimetres that are organic, insoluble and resistant to degradation. The aim is to reduce intentional microplastics emissions from as many products as possible. Some common product examples covered by the restriction include: Granular infill materials used in artificial sports surfaces, the largest source of intentional microplastics in nature, Cosmetics in which microplastics are used for multiple purposes such as peeling (micro beads) or to achieve a specific texture, smell or colour, Detergents, fabric softeners, adhesives, fertilisers, plant protection products, toys, medicines and medical devices are just a few of these. Products used in industrial settings or that do not release microplastics during use are exempt from the sales ban, but they must provide appropriate instructions for use and disposal to prevent microplastics emissions. Source