Last week, the European Union (EU) Commission proposed measures to combat microplastic pollution caused by plastic pellet spillage. The new proposal aims to reduce plastic pellet pollution by 74% by the end of the decade, potentially leading to a 7% reduction in Europe's overall microplastic pollution (Guardian). These tiny plastic pellets, also known as nurdles or nibs, are used in various plastic products but leak into the environment throughout the supply chain, eventually breaking down into microplastics that are harmful to both people and wildlife. 

According to the European Chemicals Agency, approximately 176,000 metric tons of microplastics are unintentionally released into the environment each year (Reuters). The EU's plan includes requirements for operators handling pellets to prevent, contain, and clean up spills, along with mandatory certifications and outlines for best practices. The proposal is intended to help achieve a 30% reduction in microplastic pollution by 2030 (Guardian). 

This new measure also comes in the wake of a separate EU microplastics ban on certain glitter products that recently took effect (Guardian). Virginijus Sinkevičius, the EU environment commissioner, explained that "we are only going with the pellets this time because it's the most solid data we have . . . The work doesn't stop here. It's a first step" (Reuters). The proposal is now pending negotiations and approval by EU Member States and the European Parliament.