EU Moves to Cut Microplastic Pollution from Plastic Pellets

Provisional Agreement Reached on New Microplastics Regulation

The European Commission has welcomed a provisional agreement between the European Parliament and the Council on new EU rules to tackle microplastic pollution caused by plastic pellets — including during maritime transport.

The regulation, first proposed by the Commission, aims to reduce plastic pellet losses across the entire supply chain. The deal was reached on 9 April and now awaits formal adoption.

Plastic pellets, used as raw materials in plastic manufacturing, are often lost into the environment through poor handling and accidents during transport. Recent incidents off the northwest coast of Spain and in the North Sea have highlighted the environmental risks.

New Rules Aim to Cut Pellet Losses by 74 Percent

The agreed regulation is expected to reduce pellet losses by up to 74%, significantly lowering environmental and human health risks. The Commission claims it will also benefit industries such as aquaculture, agriculture, and tourism, which are impacted by marine plastic pollution.

Microplastics are known to contaminate soil and water, persist in ecosystems, and have been found in marine species and human bodies. Once released, they are almost impossible to remove and can cause long-term environmental damage.

“These rules will help protect ecosystems, public health, and the reputation of the plastics industry,” the Commission stated.

Lower Burden for Small Businesses

To limit administrative pressure, only companies handling more than 1,500 tonnes of plastic pellets annually will be required to obtain third-party certification. Businesses below this threshold will only need to submit a self-declaration.

Micro and small enterprises — which make up a significant portion of the plastics supply chain — will be subject to lighter compliance measures and can receive technical assistance.

Industry Must Adopt Best Practices to Prevent Losses

Under the new regulation, all operators will be required to follow best handling practices to prevent, contain, and clean up plastic pellet spills. These include:

• Using quality packaging that doesn’t leak or sift

• Installing spill containment devices such as trays

• Using industrial vacuum systems during clean-ups

• Avoiding damaged or degraded containers

Standardisation bodies will also develop a harmonised method to monitor and report losses, improving data collection and accountability.

Part of EU’s Zero Pollution Target for 2030

The new rules follow the EU’s 2023 ban on intentionally added microplastics and are part of the broader Zero Pollution Action Plan, which aims to cut microplastic releases by 30% by 2030.

The regulation was initially announced under the EU Plastics Strategy and Circular Economy Action Plan and forms one of the first measures targeting unintentional microplastic releases at source.

Next Steps Before Final Adoption

The provisional agreement must now be formally adopted by the European Parliament and the Council. The regulation will enter into force 20 days after it is published in the Official Journal of the EU.