Commission protects the environment and health by restricting intentionally added microplastics

As part of the commitment to reduce microplastics pollution by 30% by 2030 to protect the environment,  the Commission has adopted measures that restrict microplastics intentionally added to products. The new rules will prevent the release of about half a million tonnes of microplastics into the environment and prohibit their sale.

Microplastics do not biodegrade and cannot be removed once they are in the environment. They have been found in marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as in food and drinking water. Laboratory studies have found that exposure to microplastics has negative effects on living organisms.

The new restrictions cover common microplastic products such as the granular infill material used on artificial sport surfaces – the largest source of intentional microplastics in the environment, as well as cosmetics, detergents, glitter, fertilisers, toys, medicines, and medical devices.

For more information

The European Green Deal

Microplastics

Press release: Commission adopts measures to restrict intentionally added microplastics

Questions and answers on the restrictions

More on microplastics from the European Chemicals Agency

Video - how do microplastics end up in our lakes?