European Council cracks down on plastic pellets
A new regulation seeks to prevent the loss of plastic pellets from the supply chain into the environment.
Companies will be required to implement risk management plans that include measures for packaging, handling, staff, training and equipment. The regulation also establishes clear obligations for clean-up operations in the event of accidental losses.
The European Council says an estimated 52-184,000t of pellets are released into the environment annually due to mishandling throughout the entire supply chain.
Plastic pellets rank as the third-largest source of unintentional microplastic releases, after paints and tyres.
The Council notes that apart from specific 'derogations and exemptions, the majority of provisions in the regulation will start applying from two years after entry into force'.
For fairness and accountability, the Council says non-EU carriers will need to designate an authorised representative within the EU.
Operators handling more than 1,500t of plastic pellets annually will be required to obtain certification from an independent third party. Smaller companies will benefit from simplified compliance measures, including self-declarations of conformity for microenterprises.
There are also specific requirements for maritime transport of plastic pellets, addressing packaging, transport and cargo information to prevent pellet losses at sea.
The European Parliament is expected to have a final vote in October 2025, and the rules will go live 20 days after publication.
