In a move to safeguard our environment, the EU Commission has adopted measures that prohibit not only the sale of microplastics themselves but also products intentionally infused with microplastics, which release these particles during use. Based on scientific findings presented by ECHA, the EU Commission formulated a restriction proposal under the European Chemicals Regulation (REACH). The restriction encompasses a broad definition of microplastics, covering all synthetic polymer particles under 5 millimeters that are organic, insoluble, and slow to degrade. The new regulation aligns with the Commissions plan of reducing microplastic pollution by 30% by 2030. This proposal received approval from EU member states, following the assessment by the European Parliament and the Council.
The initial measures, including the prohibition of loose glitter and microbeads, will take effect as soon as the restriction becomes operational. In other cases, the sales ban will come into force after a longer transition period, allowing stakeholders time to develop alternatives.
Products used in industrial settings or those that do not release microplastics during use are exempt from the sales ban. Nevertheless, manufacturers must provide instructions on product use and disposal.
The conference „Polymers – Regulatory Management and Risk Assessment“ aims at providing those manoeuvering through the changing and increasingly complex European regulatory landscape for polymers with a supportive discussion platform and practical information. Bringing together top experts with regulatory and industry backgrounds, it will look at the regulatory challenges and the challenges of testing and assessing polymers.
Find out more about the online conference here.
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