ºÏ·¨²©²ÊÍøÕ¾

Reducing microplastic pollution from plastic pellet losses

Briefing 13-02-2025

Once dispersed in the environment, microplastic particles under 5 mm in size are extremely difficult to remove and very persistent. Today, they are present in the air, soil, freshwater, seas, oceans, plants and animals, and in several components of the human diet. Human exposure to microplastic particles is therefore widespread, raising concerns about potential health impacts. On 16 October 2023, the European Commission proposed a regulation to tackle microplastic pollution resulting from losses of plastic pellets – the industrial raw materials used to make plastic products. These losses are the third largest source of unintentional microplastic releases into the EU environment. The proposal would apply to all economic operators handling plastic pellets in the EU in quantities above 5 tonnes per year, as well as to EU and non-EU carriers transporting plastic pellets within the EU. It would set requirements for best handling practices, mandatory certification and self-declaration, and provide for the development of a harmonised methodology to estimate losses. Both co-legislators have adopted their respective positions on the file. Trilogue negotiations have started, with a first round on 29 January 2025. The next round is expected to take place in April 2025. Second edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.