EU Adopts Binding Rules to Prevent Plastic Pellet Losses

EU Law Newsletter: Regulation (EU) 2025/2365

Overview

The European Union has adopted Regulation (EU) 2025/2365, introducing EU-wide mandatory requirements to prevent the loss of plastic pellets during handling, storage, and transport. Plastic pellets, including virgin and recycled materials, are a major source of unintentional microplastic pollution in the environment.

The regulation aims to significantly reduce pellet spills that contaminate land and water ecosystems and pose risks to biodiversity, human health, and economic activities such as fisheries and tourism.

Importance of the Regulation

Microplastics are persistent and widespread pollutants. Once released, they can travel long distances through air and water, accumulate in soils and oceans, and enter the food chain. Cleanup is often technically difficult or impossible.

By specifically targeting plastic pellet losses across the entire supply chain, this regulation closes a critical gap in existing EU environmental legislation and strengthens the EU’s approach to pollution prevention.

Obligations and Requirements

A. Scope and Applicability

Applies to all entities handling plastic pellets, including producers, recyclers, distributors, and carriers Covers both primary plastic pellets and recycled pellets

B. Pellet Loss Prevention

Operators must establish and implement risk management plans Plans must include spill prevention, containment measures, and clean-up procedures

C. Registration and Traceability

Facilities handling plastic pellets must be registered with competent authorities Enables effective monitoring and enforcement by regulators

D. Transport Obligations

EU and non-EU carriers must apply preventive measures during transport Non-EU operators may be required to appoint an authorised EU representative

E. Certification and Compliance

Operators handling 1,500 tonnes or more per year must obtain independent certification Smaller operators may rely on self-declarations, with voluntary certification options

Responsible Parties

• • Economic operators handling plastic pellets
  • EU and non-EU transport carriers
  • Certification bodies and national competent authorities

Entry into Force and Implementation

The regulation entered into force upon publication in the Official Journal and applies directly to all EU Member States. While the obligations are binding, Member States will define enforcement mechanisms, reporting formats, and potential phased compliance timelines within the regulation framework.

Policy Context

Regulation (EU) 2025/2365 supports the EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan and Circular Economy Strategy. It complements existing EU legislation on chemicals and waste management, including REACH and relevant waste directives, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to reducing environmental pollution at source.

Source: EU Rules on Plastic Pellet Loss