The European legislation on the restriction on intentionally added microplastics. Commentary

The potential impacts of microplastics pollution on the environment and possibly human health have raised concerns in various parts of the world. Once in the environment, microplastics do not biodegrade and cannot be removed. Several Member States have adopted or proposed specific measures. However, a patchwork of national restrictions can hinder the functioning of the internal market and therefore requires harmonization at Union level. The European Commission, on 9 November 2017, requested the European Chemicals Agency to prepare possible proposals for restrictions regarding oxo-plastics and intentionally added microplastic particles. On 25 September 2023, the restriction on microplastics intentionally added was published on the Official Journal of the European Union. By the end of 2024 it is envisaged the publication of a Guidance on the application of the microplastic restriction under Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH).