New legal provisions: restrictions on microplastics

Lanartex would like to inform you about a series of new legal provisions that will come into force shortly and could have a significant impact on your business operations. On 17 October 2023 a new restriction on microplastics was introduced under the REACH Regulation. This restriction brings an important set of changes that it is essential to understand and implement to ensure compliance with the new rules.

What does the new restriction provide for?

This restriction introduces important changes regarding the intentional use of microplastics. However, it has been confirmed that, in the case of clothing/garments and footwear, the primary function of these products is to cover the wearer. They therefore do not automatically fall within the scope of the restriction, unless it can be shown that derogation 5(c) applies. This means that glitter made of synthetic polymer material, such as the commonly used aluminised polyethylene terephthalate, falls within the scope of the restriction. However, glitter made of inorganic material (for example glass or metal), or of biodegradable or water-soluble material, is not subject to this restriction.

What does the restriction cover?

The new restriction addresses the intentional use of microplastics in various sectors, including cosmetics, detergents, fabric softeners, glitter, fertilisers, plant protection products, toys, medicinal products and medical devices, among others. The microplastics concerned are those used as granular infill material or to achieve specific characteristics such as texture, fragrance or colour.

Why this restriction?

The decision to ban the intentional use of microplastics stems from concern about the accumulation of these particles in the environment and in living organisms, with toxic consequences. The European Commission’s goal is to reduce microplastic pollution by 30% by 2030. The economic impact estimated by ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) is 19 billion euros over the next 20 years.

Key points of the Regulation

• Definition of Synthetic Polymer Microparticles: this term refers to solid polymers contained in particles. The restriction applies to particles with dimensions equal to or less than 5 mm, or with a length equal to or less than 15 mm and a length-to-diameter ratio greater than 3.
• Exclusions: as mentioned above, clothing, garments and footwear do not fall within the scope of the restriction unless it can be shown that derogation 5(c) applies.

Timeline for entry into force

The microplastics restrictions will be implemented in several phases, starting on 17 October 2023 for certain cosmetics, followed by further implementation phases for other products.

Conclusions

In the context of these new restrictions on microplastics, the crucial role of the Lanartex laboratory in developing ecodesigned textile products becomes clear. Our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility has placed us in a unique position in the sector. Thanks to our ongoing work on innovation and on research into sustainable materials and processes, we are able to face these new challenges with determination.

We are aware of the importance of applying ecodesign principles at the design stage of garments and of actively contributing to reducing microplastic pollution. We will continue to promote environmental sustainability as an integral part of our mission, ensuring that our products meet the highest standards of quality and respect for the environment.

We remain at your disposal for further information and to work with you on developing cutting-edge, eco-sustainable textile solutions.