The Committee for Socio-economic Analysis (SEAC) has adopted its opinion to ban microplastics in products such as cosmetics, detergents, fertilizers on a landmark restriction proposal, which could lead to a ban of its use as soft infill on artificial turf sports pitches. It would prevent the release of 500 000 tonnes of microplastics into the environment for over 20 years.

Several options to prevent the release of microplastic infill material from artificial turf sports pitches were recommended to the policymakers. It includes a ban on placing on the market after a transition period of six years Next steps – Following the adoption of SEAC’s opinion, ECHA will send the opinions of both committees and its restriction proposal to the European Commission. Restrictions under the REACH Regulation are proposed by the European Commission, voted by the EU Member States in the REACH Committee, and scrutinized by the Council and the European Parliament.

Reference:https://echa.europa.eu/