17 January 2018
Chemicals compliance
The Commission has asked ECHA to prepare proposals for possible restrictions concerning oxo-plastics and intentionally added microplastic particles.
Current evidence suggests a potential risk to the environment and human health from microplastic particles that are intentionally added to certain consumer or professional products such as cosmetics, detergents and paint. Oxo-plastics, also called oxo-degradable plastics, facilitate the rapid degradation of polymer materials into very small particles, and may potentially contribute to microplastic pollution.
Other types of material that may lead to generation of microplastics, such as the degradation of textiles and carpets, are not covered by the requests of the Commission.
What are oxo- and microplastics?
Oxo-plastics or oxo-degradable plastics are conventional plastics that contain additives which promote the oxidation of the material under certain conditions. They are used in applications such as agricultural films, rubbish and carrier bags, food packaging, and landfill covers. They can break down into very small particles, potentially contributing to environmental contamination by microplastics.
Microplastics are synthetic, water-insoluble polymer items smaller than 5 mm, which are considered to be of particular concern for the aquatic environment. The potential impact of microplastics on the (aquatic) environment and human health have generated concerns in Member States of the European Union and worldwide.
04 April 2024
Chemicals compliance
On 3 April 2024, Regulation 2024/996 amending Annexes II, III, V and VI of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 was published. Below is the list of the amendments: Annex II (prohibited substances): the substance...
18 March 2024
Chemicals compliance
On 15 March 2024, Regulation 2024/858 was published, amending Annexes II and III of Regulation 1223/2009 with regard to certain nanomaterials. The following have been added to Annex II (and are therefore...