On August 30, 2022, the European Commission released a draft proposal to restrict intentionally added microplastics. This proposal could prohibit the use of microplastics in cosmetics, cleaning products, pesticides, and more--covering sources of microplastics that are preventable. On September 23, 2022, the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) Committee had a first discussion on a draft Commission Regulation (EU) amending Annex XVII to the REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 as regards synthetic polymer microparticles. Eventually, the EU Member States will vote on the draft regulation in the REACH Committee. Before the restriction can be adopted, it is scrutinized by the European Parliament and the Council. If the proposal passes, companies may be given 12 years to adapt to the law.

With more than 20 years of experience navigating the regulatory landscape for nanomaterials for our clients, and a mission to link science to policy, Vireo Advisors will be following these developments with keen interest.