EU reaches new rules to reduce microplastic pollution
On April 9, 2025, the European Parliament and the Council have provisionally agreed on a regulation to prevent the loss of plastic particles into the environment.
The new rules will help improve the handling of plastic particles at all stages of the supply chain, including on land and at sea.
Paulina, Minister of the Environment of Poland, which holds the rotating EU presidency "Every year, the equivalent of up to 7,300 truckloads of plastic pellets are lost to the environment. Today, the EU has taken a landmark step to reduce pellet pollution by taking measures to address pellet losses and ensure their correct handling, including during maritime transport," said Hennig-Kloska.
Under the new rules, preventing the loss of plastic pellets will be a key objective for operators and EU and non-EU carriers. A clear framework sets out obligations in the event of accidental losses, with a focus on clean-up actions. A clear set of measures will be included in the risk management plan drawn up by each installation handling pellets. These will address, among other things, packaging, handling, employee training and the necessary equipment.
In order to provide a level playing field between EU and non-EU carriers and to ensure accountability and transparency for all carriers of plastic pellets, non-EU carriers will have to appoint an authorised representative in the EU.
Under the simplified rules for small companies, In line with the objectives of the 2022 World Trade Organization (WTO) and reflecting the Council's approach, the interim agreement strikes a balance between a high level of environmental protection and requirements adapted to companies of different sizes. In this sense, operators handling more than 1,500 tonnes of plastic pellets per year will have to obtain a certificate issued by an independent third party. Smaller companies that also handle more than 1,500 tonnes per year will benefit from lighter obligations, such as a one-time certification within 5 years of entry into force. Finally, companies and micro-enterprises that handle less than 1,500 tonnes per year will only have to issue a self-declaration of compliance.
As plastic pellets are not biodegradable, their residual time in the aquatic environment can be measured in decades or even longer. In addition, maritime transport accounted for approximately 38% of all pellet transport in the EU in 2022.
The co-legislators also agreed to set obligations for the transport of plastic pellets by sea (in freight containers), including ensuring high-quality packaging and providing information related to transport and cargo, in accordance with IMO guidelines.
