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Commission proposes measures to reduce microplastic pollution from plastic pellets

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The Commission is proposing for the first time measures to prevent microplastic pollution from the unintentional release of plastic pellets.

Currently, between 52 and 184 thousand tonnes of pellets are released in the environment each year due to mishandling throughout the entire supply chain. The proposal aims to ensure that all operators handling pellets in the EU take the necessary precautionary measures. This is expected to reduce pellet release by up to 74%, leading to cleaner ecosystems, contributing to plastic-free rivers and ocean, and reducing potential risks to human health. Common EU-wide measures will also help level the playing field for operators. 

The proposal covers notably best practices for operators regarding handling of pellets, mandatory certification and self-declarations, and a common methodology to estimate losses. Lighter requirements will apply to small and medium businesses to help them comply. The proposal will now be taken forward by the European Parliament and the Council in the ordinary legislative procedure.

More information is in the press release and Questions and Answers.

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