Restriction of microplastics in the EU from 17 October 2023
As from 17 October 2023, Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 restricts synthetic polymer microparticles on their own or intentionally added to mixtures with the aim of reducing the emission of microplastics in everyday products in order to protect the environment.
The EU considers synthetic polymer particles smaller than 5 mm that are organic, insoluble and resistant to degradation to be microplastics. These types of particles are present in many products such as:
- glitter,
- facial scrubs and other types of cosmetics,
- detergents
- waxes, polishes and air fresheners,
- certain fertilisers, plant protection products and seeds treated with them, biocides,
- other agricultural and horticultural products other than those listed above
- certain medical devices covered by Regulation (EU) 2017/745
- granular infill for use in synthetic sports surfaces (such as rubber substrate for artificial turf sports surfaces).
The transitional periods for the implementation of the ban on the sale of these products in the EU are set out by the Regulation and are indicated in the table below:
Transitional period for the application of the ban
(according to paragraph 6 under entry 78 of Annex XVII to R/EC 1907/2006)
Designation of the substance, of the group of substances or of the mixture | Date of application |
---|---|
|
From 17 October 2027 |
|
From 17 October 2028 |
|
From 17 October 2029 |
|
From 17 October 2031 |
|
From 17 October 2035 |
Further information can be found in:
- Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 amending Annex XVII to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 on the REACH: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/ES/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32023R2055
- Regulation(EC) 1907/2006 on the REACH: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/ES/ALL/?uri=CELEX:02006R1907-20230806
- EU Commission – DG GROW: Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 - Restriction of microplastics intentionally added to products: https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/commission-regulation-eu-20232055-restriction-microplastics-intentionally-added-products_en
- European Chemicals Agency - ECHA: https://echa.europa.eu/hot-topics/microplastics