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[EU] EC to launch study to achieve phase-out or ban of microplastics in cosmetic products

The European Commission (EC) intends to launch a study including a scoping exercise of options to achieve a phase-out or ban of microplastics in cosmetic products. This was indicated by the European Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries in his answer of 11 December 2014 to a parliamentary question in relation to microplastics and their environmental impact.

Threat due to uncontrollable release into the environment

The Commissioner also specified that microplastics in consumer products constitute a threat due to their uncontrollable release into the environment.

Measures identified in the Green Paper on Plastic Waste to reach targets by 2020

Furthermore, he reminded that a number of actions highlighted in the Green Paper on Plastic Waste have already been taken into account in the on-going review of waste legislation. Such measures mainly concern thin single-use plastic bags, a landfill ban for separately collected recyclable waste, such as plastic, as of 2025 and the increase of the target for preparation for reuse and recycling of plastic packaging to 45% by 2020 and 60% by 2025“.

Regulatory compliance reminder

As a reminder, Regulation (EU) 2015/56 of 15 January 2015 amended, as regards the trade in species of wild fauna and flora, Regulation (EC) No 865/2006 of 4 May 2006 laying down detailed rules concerning the implementation of Regulation (EC) No 338/97 of 9 December 1996 on the protection of species of wild fauna and flora by regulating trade therein. Regulation (EU) 2015/57 of 15 January 2015 amends Regulation (EU) No 792/2012 as regards the rules for the design of permits, certificates and other documents provided for in Regulation (EC) No 338/97 and in Regulation (EC) No 865/2006.

Red-on-line EHS Legal expert

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