On 27 September 2023, the European Commission approved and published Regulation (EU) 2023/2055, to add a new Entry 78 to Annex XVII to the EU REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, to restrict synthetic polymer microparticles (SPM) (“Microplastics”) for all uses, unless exempted.

The regulation will apply from 17 October 2023, except for certain products with transitional periods given. The restriction does not apply to the products placed on the EU market before the application date of the regulation, i.e., 17 October 2023.

According to the new regulation, EU Manufacturers, importers and industrial downstream users of products containing SPM (e.g. glitters, microbeads) shall provide specific information on the identity of polymers covered by this entry contained in those products and the function of those polymers in the products, as well as the proof, if the polymers are claimed to be excluded from the designation of SPM on grounds of degradability or solubility, to competent authorities upon their request.

Intertek therefore recommends that EU Manufacturers and importers should check as soon as possible whether their products contain SPM ("micro-plastics") in the ingredients, and their applicable transition period(s) and/or assess the potential derogation(s). If EU manufacturers and importers intend to claim that a product does not fall under the designation of SPM ("micro-plastics") on grounds of degradability or solubility, then they shall prepare valid documents such as test reports.

Intertek is capable of providing you with testing and consultation services on degradability tests, solubility tests, carbon-free verification, as well as consultation services, to assist EU manufacturers, importers and their suppliers to cope with the impact and challenges of the new regulation on the industry, e.g.:

If the biodegradation test results meet the criteria of the Intertek Green Leaf Certificate, clients can further apply for Intertek's Green Leaf Certificate. After certification, Intertek's Green Leaf Certificate and Logo can be used in a variety of promotional channels, such as on the product itself or its packaging, in product leaflets, or on the website, to demonstrate the company's actions and awareness of sustainability, which can help to increase the recognition of the company and its products amongst consumers.

For more information about Intertek’s services, please scan the QR code below to contact us.

Consulting Hotline:
Smile Cheng: +86 (0755) 2602 0216
Smile.cheng@interterk.com

About Intertek

Intertek is a leading Total Quality Assurance provider to industries worldwide. Our network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and more than 100 countries, delivers innovative and bespoke Assurance, Testing, Inspection and Certification solutions for our customers’ operations and supply chains. Intertek Total Quality Assurance expertise, delivered consistently with precision, pace and passion, enabling our customers to power ahead safely.

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