On 27 September 2023, Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 amending Annex XVII of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (REACH) was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. This introduces a new restriction regarding synthetic polymer articles (microplastics). As a rule, microplastics are plastic particles in the size range below 5 mm.
Many products are affected by the new rules on microplastics. These include, for example, cosmetic products or bedding granulate on sports fields. The restrictions are implemented with various use-specific transition periods. Even if the use falls under one of the exemptions, there may be information, reporting or labelling obligations. The restrictions for cosmetic products with microbeads (exfoliants) and loose "glitter" already apply from 17.10.2023.