Plastic pellets — tiny raw materials used in plastic production — are among the main sources of microplastic pollution. The European Union has taken a major step to tackle this issue through a provisional agreement between the Council and the European Parliament. The goal is to minimize pellet losses throughout the supply chain and reduce environmental impact, both on land and at sea.
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Microplastics Everywhere – Why Action Is Urgent
Microplastics are found across multiple ecosystems; in oceans, seas, and even in the food we eat. Every year, an amount of plastic pellets equivalent to the load of 7.3 thousand trucks, ends up in nature. Until now, the EU lacked specific legislation to address pellet losses, allowing this form of pollution to continue thriving without any supervision.
Main Objective: Preventing Pellet Losses
The new rules focus on preventing pellet leaks as a primary obligation for operators and transporters — both within and outside the EU. Every facility handling pellets will be required to have a risk management plan covering procedures like packaging, loading, staff training, and cleanup. Third-country transporters will also need to appoint a representative within the EU to ensure transparency and accountability.
Balancing Environmental Protection with Compliance Ease
To avoid overburdening smaller businesses, the rules introduce a multilevel approach. Companies handling over 1,500 tonnes of pellets annually will need third-party certification. Smaller operators will face lighter obligations — such as a one-time certification within five years of the rules taking effect. Micro-enterprises handling less than 1,500 tons will simply need to file a declaration of compliance (DoC).
What Comes Next
The provisional agreement now awaits formal approval by both the Council and the European Parliament. Once adopted and published in the EU Official Journal, the regulation will come into force two years later. Maritime transport rules will apply one year after that to allow for proper adaptation.
Conclusion
With this new regulation, the EU is making a clear move to cut microplastic pollution at its source. By targeting plastic pellet losses through structured risk management and fair compliance rules, the Union is aligning environmental responsibility with practical business considerations. It’s a significant milestone towards cleaner ecosystems and a more sustainable future.
