In modern society, the issue of microplastics has increasingly become a global focus. These plastic particles smaller than 5mm have left their footprint in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as in our food and drinking water. This challenge has prompted governments and organizations worldwide to take action in finding ways to mitigate or solve microplastic pollution. Against this backdrop, the European Union has made a significant decision to impose strict restrictions on the use of microplastics by amending Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation. This article will explore the specifics of this regulation, its impact on businesses, and the potential global implications of this policy.

(1) Overview of the Regulation Amendment

On September 25, 2023, the EU formally adopted the microplastics restriction proposal, which was passed in Brussels after years of discussion. Its core is the amendment to Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation, aiming to restrict the placing on the market of microplastics and related products within the EU to reduce their environmental pollution.

(2) Specific Definition and Restrictions of Microplastics

The regulation provides a clear definition of synthetic polymer microparticles as non-natural synthetic carbon-based polymer particles or fibers with a diameter below 5mm or a length not exceeding 15mm and a length-to-diameter ratio greater than 3, which are difficult to degrade and have a solubility ≤2g/L, constituting 1% or more of the total particle mass. The related restrictions include prohibiting the placing on the market of synthetic polymer microparticles as substances themselves or intentionally added to mixtures (with a concentration ≥0.01% by weight).

(3) Products and Timeline

The new microplastics regulation involves restrictions on various common products and a detailed timeline aimed at gradually reducing the use of microplastics in different products. Below are some key product categories and their associated implementation timelines:

Additionally, it is noteworthy that the EUs microplastic restrictions do establish certain exemptions for products under specific circumstances and special uses.

(1) Increased regulatory requirements

As REACH regulations become increasingly complex, the compliance requirements for enterprises are also growing, undoubtedly raising the competitive threshold and risks. Companies need to respond proactively, promptly monitor whether their products exported to Europe meet new regulatory requirements, and calmly adapt to regulatory changes.

(2) Product adjustment and R&D

Enterprises need to reassess and adjust existing products to ensure compliance with new regulatory requirements. This may involve redesigning products, replacing raw materials, or modifying production processes.

(3) Information notification and labeling requirements

For certain products in transitional periods or exempted, the regulations introduce additional information notification and labeling requirements. This may include submitting information to downstream users and competent authorities about substance characteristics, usage and release quantities, disposal and usage instructions, etc., as well as adding clearly legible and indelible warning statements on product packaging.

(1) Reducing microplastic pollution

The implementation of this microplastic restriction is expected to reduce microplastic pollution in the EU by 70%, and cumulatively reduce approximately 500,000 tons of microplastic waste over the next 20 years.

(2) Promoting global microplastic governance

The EUs decision will strongly advance the process of global microplastic governance, providing a replicable example for other countries and regions.

(3) Impact on global supply chains

This EU policy will also have profound effects on global supply chains. Suppliers and manufacturers worldwide may need to adjust their production processes and products to ensure compliance with the EUs new requirements, especially for those businesses reliant on the EU market.

Microplastic pollution has become a global concern, and the EUs adopted microplastic restriction is undoubtedly a policy with far-reaching global impact. It not only provides robust regulatory support for environmental protection within the EU but also serves as a reference for microplastic control in other countries and regions. Simultaneously, this regulation presents new challenges and opportunities for related industries, requiring adjustments and improvements in product design, manufacturing, and information disclosure.

Original Text of the Act:Measures to restrict microplastics (europa.eu)