EU adopts REACH restriction on intentionally added microplastics

The EU Commission adopted measures under REACH to restrict intentionally added microplastics, preventing roughly half a million tonnes of releases into the environment. The phased bans on products like cosmetics, detergents, and glitter foreshadow tightening global chemical norms that Indian exporters to the EU will need to track.

The EU Commission adopted measures under the REACH chemical legislation to restrict intentionally added microplastics, designed to prevent the release of approximately half a million tonnes into the environment. The restriction uses a comprehensive definition covering all synthetic polymer particles that are organic, insoluble, resistant to degradation, and smaller than five millimetres. It bans the sale of microplastics and products that release them during use, with exemptions and transitional periods where valid reasons exist for affected parties to adapt.

The restriction affects manufacturers of granular infill for artificial sports surfaces, the largest source of intentionally added microplastics, plus cosmetics with microbeads, detergents, fabric softeners, glitter, fertilizers, plant protection products, toys, medicines, and medical devices. Products used industrially or that do not release microplastics during use are exempt from the sales ban, but their manufacturers must provide guidance on proper use and disposal to prevent emissions. This supports the Zero Pollution Action Plan target to cut microplastic pollution 30% by 2030.

Affected stakeholders should prepare for staggered enforcement: the prohibition on loose glitter and microbeads takes effect when the restriction becomes enforceable in 20 days, while other sales bans apply later to allow development of alternatives. Manufacturers of exempt products must issue use and disposal guidance. Companies supplying EU markets can monitor REACH timelines, the European Chemicals Agency's risk findings, and the European Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan commitments shaping further microplastic regulation.

Key figure — Releases prevented: approximately half a million tonnes of microplastics