Here, No More Microplastics!

The European Union has voted to ban microplastics in various consumer products.

“We believe the future of the chemicals industry is to emphasize sustainability and sustainable alternatives. So this is an opportunity for the European industry to be at the forefront of the development towards more sustainability and innovation,” says European Commission spokesperson, Johanna Bernsel.

Cosmetics, detergents, glitter, fertilizers, toys, medicines, medical devices, and more will all be impacted by the ban, which applies to both products manufactured in the European Union as well as those imported from abroad. Transition periods from a few months to a few years have been implemented, allowing manufacturers to transition to other means of production. The ban is ultimately projected to prevent the release of half a million tons of microplastics into the environment in the coming years. Hopefully, this EU’s move will inspire other countries worldwide to create similar measures.