Registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemical substances regarding synthetic polymer microparticles
EU Regulation 2023/2055 of September 25, 2023
The key points in brief
What is microplastic?
According to the EU regulation, microplastics are defined as synthetically produced, solid, water-insoluble, and biologically non-degradable plastic particles. To be considered microplastics, these particles must be smaller than 5 mm. Plastic fibers, however, must not exceed 15 mm in length and must have a length-to-diameter ratio greater than 3. No lower particle size threshold has been established. Due to the great variety of materials, no specific materials have been defined; instead, intrinsic properties related to size, size ratio, solid state, synthetic origin, and extreme persistence in the environment are outlined.
The EU regulation on microplastics affects various industries and products in which synthetic polymer microparticles are used. Some of the affected sectors and products include: the cosmetics industry (lipsticks, makeup, skincare products, etc.), the cleaning products industry (abrasive cleaners), the sports and leisure industry (infills for artificial turf), agriculture and horticulture (fertilizers or pesticides), medical products (in-vitro diagnostics), the food and feed industry, and others. Depending on the industry, different transition periods have been granted.
Which industries and products are affected?
Liquid Polymers?
Liquid polymers, waxes, gels, and soluble plastics are not affected by the current EU regulation. Due to their versatility and chemical stability, these are also used in many areas, including cosmetics, cleaning products, and medicine. However, the issue with liquid polymers arises from their potential ability to enter the environment and cause impacts there.
The EU plans to reduce microplastic pollution also include future measures to reduce unintentionally released microplastics, particularly in the areas of tires, textiles, and plastic pellets. This is in response to the European Green Deal, the European Plastics Strategy, and the Circular Economy Action Plan. An "Call for Evidence for an Impact Assessment" has already been published. The goal is to reduce the environmental input of microplastics in order to contribute to achieving the targets of the European Green Deal.
Unintentionally released microplastics?
