The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is now ready to receive annual reports from companies on their microplastics releases under the EU-wide microplastics restriction, which came into force in 2023. The reporting obligations apply to uses that are exempt from the ban, with the first reports due by 31 May 2026, covering estimated emissions for 2025.
The reporting system, developed in collaboration with stakeholders, standardises data collection and ensures transparency. It allows regulators to monitor microplastics emissions and evaluate the effectiveness of risk management measures, providing a basis for potential future policy decisions.
Obligations apply to manufacturers, importers, and downstream users of synthetic polymer microparticles (SPMs) in exempted uses, such as veterinary and human medicines, food additives, in vitro diagnostic devices, and industrial applications. Suppliers placing SPM-containing products on the market under these exemptions are also affected. Reports must be prepared in IUCLID format and submitted through REACH-IT, with updates allowed from the second quarter of 2026.
ECHA has released comprehensive support materials, including reporting guidelines, an IUCLID manual, a tutorial video, and a pre-filled dataset to assist companies in preparing their submissions. Firms are encouraged to review these resources ahead of the deadlines to ensure compliance.
The EU microplastics restriction aims to reduce intentional releases of microplastics from products and industrial processes while monitoring exempted uses, supporting the EU’s broader environmental protection and sustainability goals.
