New Restriction on Microplastics

In 2017, ECHA was commissioned by the European Commission (EC) to prepare a dossier with a view to a possible restriction of microplastics, the conclusion of which led to a recommendation to place a limit on microplastics intentionally added to certain products due to their uncontrolled release into the environment.

25 September. 2023: Following the scientific evidence provided, the EC has drafted the proposed restriction of microplastics under Annex XVII of REACH, which aims to reduce the release of intentional microplastics from products, and covers all synthetic polymeric particles smaller than 5 millimetres that are organic, insoluble and resistant to degradation.

The Main Changes

The change consists of the addition of a new entry 78 in Annex XVII of the EU chemical legislation REACH, which restricts synthetic polymer microparticles, and two new Appendices 15 and 16, which indicate the rules for demonstrating the degradability and solubility of these microplastics. Furthermore, in paragraph 1, the restriction specifies that “Shall not be placed on the market as substances on their own or, where the synthetic polymer microparticles are present to confer a sought-after characteristic, in mixtures in a concentration equal to or greater than 0,01 % by weight”. A threshold limit is therefore defined for microplastics intentionally added in certain products.

The new restriction will enter into force on 17 October 2023, with longer transition periods of 4 to 12 years for some items:

• 17 October 2027. Rinse-off cosmetics
• 17 October 2028. Detergents, waxes, polishes and air care products
• 17 October 2028.Fertiliser products
• 17 October 2028 Other Agricultural and Horticultural Products
• 7 October 2029. Synthetic polymer microparticles for use in fragrance encapsulation
• 17 October 2029. Leave-on cosmetics
• 17 October 2029. Medical devices
• 17 October 2031. Plant protection products, seeds and biocides
• 17 October 2031. Granular filler for use on synthetic sports surfaces
• 17 October 2035. Lip and make-up products

Please refer to the official document for more information.

Microplastics: What can Mérieux NutriSciences Do for You?

• Product contamination risk analysis and identification of critical control points along the supply chain
• Biodegradability assessment applying ECHA reference protocols
• Solubility assessment
• Identification and determination of microplastics