Researchers in France Warn About Plastic Pollution: Focus on Microplastics
In an effort to combat the growing issue of microplastics pollution, the European Union (EU) has adopted a comprehensive strategy that encompasses strict chemical regulations, waste reduction initiatives, and the promotion of innovative solutions.
The EU's approach, outlined in the Zero Pollution Action Plan, aims to reduce microplastics by 30% by 2030. This ambitious target is underpinned by a variety of measures, including regulatory restrictions, waste reduction initiatives, and innovation promotion.
One of the key elements of the EU's strategy is the restriction of intentionally added microplastics in products like cosmetics and detergents, as per the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation, which was adopted in 2023. However, the industry has voiced concerns about certain aspects of this ban.
Another significant focus is on preventing pellet losses, a key source of microplastics. A draft regulation is in place to minimize industrial pellet spills in the maritime transport sector.
The EU has also introduced the Packaging Waste Directive (PPWR), which emphasizes reuse and recyclability to reduce plastic packaging waste and its degradation into microplastics. By 2030, it mandates 100% recyclable or reusable packaging.
Furthermore, the Single-Use Plastics Directive restricts the most problematic single-use plastic items where alternatives exist and introduces measures like design and labeling requirements, along with producer responsibilities to improve collection and recycling rates.
In addition to these measures, the EU is funding projects to develop bio-sourced and biodegradable plastics as alternatives to conventional plastics that degrade into microplastics.
Moreover, the EU is actively negotiating for a legally binding international treaty on plastic pollution, covering the entire lifecycle of plastics, and aiming for global cooperative measures beyond its borders.
Despite these efforts, the issue of microplastics pollution remains a concern. With negotiations for a global treaty still underway, Europe and the international community face a choice: continue managing pollution, or tackle the problem at its root.
The Mediterranean Sea, which holds 7% of all global microplastics despite holding only 1% of the world's waters, is one of the largest accumulation zones for marine litter. Jean-François Ghiglione, a marine microbiologist and research director at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), is conducting a study on the impact of microplastic pollution in the Mediterranean.
Ghiglione led an unprecedented sampling campaign across nine major European rivers in 2019, during which he found microplastics everywhere in 'alarming' concentrations. His research involves towing two trawls for one hour to collect microplastic samples.
Scientists, including Ghiglione, are calling for more action. He hopes the EU will come out with a list of chemical substances to be banned from use in plastics and drive a push for a drastic reduction in plastic production.
However, the effects of microplastics on human health are not yet fully understood. What is known is that marine animals exposed to microplastics can absorb chemical substances, many of which are endocrine disruptors. These substances can impact the health of marine animals, but their impact on human health remains a subject of ongoing research.
As the battle against microplastics pollution continues, it is clear that a multifaceted approach, combining strict chemical regulations, systemic reduction of plastic waste and pollution at source, fostering circular economy principles, and international cooperation, is essential to tackle this global issue effectively.
