The European Commission (EC) adopted measures this Monday to restrict intentionally added microplastics, with which will prevent release into the environment of around half a million tons of microplastics.
Under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical Substances (REACH) Regulation of the European Union (EU), the sale of microplastics as such and of products to which microplastics have been intentionally added and release them when they are used.
In the event that they are “duly justified”, exceptions and transition periods will apply so that those affected adapt to the new rules, the Community Executive reported in a statement.
The adopted restriction uses a broad definition of microplastics, as it covers all synthetic polymer particles less than five millimeters which are organic, insoluble and resistant to degradation.
The goal of these measures is to reduce intentional microplastic emissions from as many products as possible, and the most common within the scope of the restriction are cosmetics. -exfoliation with microbeads or obtaining a fragrance-detergents, loose glitter, toys or medications, among others.