The European Commission (EC) has published Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055, amending Annex XVII to Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006. This update includes a new restriction in entry 78, which concerns synthetic polymer microparticles (SPMs). The entry states that SPMs cannot be used when “they are present to confer a sought-after characteristic in mixtures in a concentration equal to or greater than 0.01% by weight.”
This restriction aligns with the European Union’s (EU’s) strategy to eliminate plastic pollution.
This restriction prohibits the sale of microplastics as such, products to which microplastics have been intentionally added and that release those microplastics when used.
UL Solutions experts can help you navigate compliance with this regulation. We recommend testing your products to these new requirements soon because the restriction is already in effect for some products. Contact us to learn more.
Common examples of products affected by this restriction include cosmetics and toys (such as slime or putty) that contain microplastics or microbeads; loose glitter; and infill material for artificial sports surfaces.
View the full article from the UL Solutions Regulatory expert team here.
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