EU Microplastics Reporting

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has officially launched its annual reporting system for microplastics emissions under the EU’s microplastics restrictions. The requirement applies only to uses that remain exempt from the EU-wide ban on intentionally added microplastics. Companies must submit their first emission reports by 31 May 2026, covering estimated releases from the 2025 calendar year.

The EU’s microplastics restriction, effective since October 2023, prohibits intentional uses of microplastics in several product categories, including:

a. Cosmetics
b. Detergents
c. Agricultural formulations
d. Specific industrial applications

For applications that remain exempt, annual reporting is mandatory. These reports help regulators monitor microplastic emissions, evaluate the effectiveness of risk management measures, and support future environmental policy decisions.

What’s New?

With updates released in November 2025, both IUCLID and REACH-IT now support standardized submission formats for microplastics emission reporting. The system, developed in collaboration with industry and regulators, enhances data transparency and enables accurate tracking of microplastic releases across the EU.

Who Must Report?

Reporting obligations apply to synthetic polymer microparticles (SPMs) used in exempted applications, including:

Human and veterinary medicinal products

i. Food additives
ii. In vitro diagnostic devices
iii. Industrial site uses

Obligations extend to:

i. Manufacturers
ii. Importers
iii. Downstream users
iv. Suppliers of SPMs and SPM-containing products (where applicable)

Important Deadlines

1. Deadline: 31 May 2026

For manufacturers and industrial users handling SPMs as:

1. Pellets
2. Flakes
3. Powders

These are typically used as raw materials in plastic production at industrial sites.

2. Deadline: 31 May 2027

Applies to:

1. All remaining industrial downstream users of SPMs
2. Suppliers placing SPM-containing products on the market for exempted professional or consumer uses
3. All reports must cover emissions from the preceding calendar year.

Submission Requirements

Companies must:

a. Prepare emission reports using IUCLID.
b. Submit them through REACH-IT.
c. Use the latest platform versions released in November 2025.
d. Currently, REACH-IT accepts initial submissions only, with update functionality expected in Q2 2026.

Support Materials from ECHA

To support compliance, ECHA has made available:

i. Comprehensive reporting guidelines
ii. An IUCLID preparation manual
iii. Additional technical documents and resources

Companies are advised to review these materials early to ensure timely and accurate submissions.

Reference: All News ECHA