Restrictions on Microplastics: EU Publishes Guidance

The EU Commission has published guidance for companies and stakeholders affected by the restrictions on microplastics according to EU Regulation 2023/2055. It describes the provisions and objectives of the restrictions, contains a detailed list of frequently asked questions, and covers other matters.

In addition to these sections, the annex to the document provides examples of borderline cases. The EU Commission prepared the document in consultation with the ECHA and EU member states.

Background to the guidelines

The guidelines are important. The microplastics restriction has been in force since October 2023. It imposes numerous obligations on the companies affected. The number of companies involved is large because synthetic polymer particles smaller than 5 millimeters in diameter are used in many industries and products, including paints and printing inks, adhesives and sealants, construction chemicals, and fragrances.

Various reporting obligations

According to entry 78 of Annex XVII, manufacturers and downstream industrial users of synthetic polymer microparticles must report a variety of information to the ECHA. Examples include the intended use of the particles and details of the quantity of polymer microparticles released into the environment in the previous calendar year. The reporting obligation begins on October 17 of this year.

Do you have questions about the microplastics problem or the safety of your products? Please contact us at sales@kft.de.