Zero Pollution: Council Agrees on Reducing Plastic Pellet Losses, Including in Maritime Transport

The Council of the European Union has taken a decisive step toward more responsible environmental pollution management. During the recent meeting on December 17, 2024, an official position was reached on the new regulation for preventing the loss of plastic pellets along the entire supply chain. This decision represents a concrete response to the growing concern over microplastics, which continue to threaten marine and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as human health.

But what are plastic pellets, and why are they at the center of such complex regulation? These small granules serve as the foundation for producing a wide range of plastic products. However, due to inadequate handling or accidents , they can disperse into the environment. Once released, they spread quickly due to wind and water, making recovery impossible. According to data from the European Commission, between 52,140 and 184,290 tons of pellets were lost to the environment in 2019, a volume that significantly contributes to the microplastic problem.

An Ambitious Regulation for a Global Issue The proposed regulation sets specific obligations for economic operators, carriers, and maritime vessels, covering all stages of the supply chain: from production to transport, and even the cleaning of containers used for storing the pellets. This approach aims to reduce plastic loss by up to 74%, addressing a problem that has now become a global challenge.

One of the most innovative aspects of the regulation is the introduction of obligations for maritime vessels, which are responsible for transporting about 38% of the pellets moved within the European Union. Until now, maritime transport had remained largely outside similar regulations, despite the obvious risks: incidents such as the 2023 spill along the northern coast of Spain, which released millions of pellets into the waters and beaches of Galicia, highlighted the need for stricter rules.

With the new measures, ships will be required to ensure that pellets are transported in secure packaging and stored in protected areas. Additionally, non-EU carriers will need to appoint an authorized representative within the EU to ensure compliance with the rules, avoiding disparities with European carriers.

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Obligations for Businesses and Certification The regulation requires all companies handling more than 5 tons of pellets annually to adopt preventive measures to minimize losses. Larger companies, with volumes exceeding 1,000 tons per year, will be required to obtain certification from independent bodies to demonstrate compliance. Small businesses, on the other hand, will need to provide a compliance declaration, with extended timelines for adjustments.

In addition to certification, economic operators will need to implement a risk management plan, which should include identifying potential sources of loss and adopting measures to contain them. Each plan will be subject to periodic inspections by the relevant authorities, who will also be responsible for monitoring records related to the volumes of pellets managed and any losses.

A crucial aspect is transparency. Authorities will be required to make public information related to pellet handling, including risk management plans and certificates of compliance, through online platforms accessible to all. This will not only allow for public oversight but also foster greater citizen engagement in the fight against pollution.

Impact on Microenterprises and Support from Member States To prevent the new rules from imposing an excessive burden on microenterprises, the regulation provides exemptions and longer transition periods. However, the fundamental principle remains the same: every economic operator, regardless of size, is expected to do its part.

Member States will play a key role in implementing the measures, with the option to adopt even stricter standards. Additionally, they will be encouraged to provide technical and financial support to businesses to help them comply with the new rules. This could include staff training, access to more advanced technologies, and the creation of economic incentives.

Next Steps With the Council's approval, the regulation now moves to the negotiation phase with the European Parliament, expected to begin in early 2025. The goal is to adopt a final version of the text by the end of the year, for it to come into force in the 27 Member States in 2026.

This initiative is part of the EU's broader commitment to reducing microplastic emissions by 30% by 2030, as outlined in the European Green Deal. But beyond the goals, the true message is clear: fighting pollution is a responsibility that concerns everyone. Not just governments and businesses, but each of us, as citizens, can do our part.

Glossary Certification : The process by which an independent body verifies that a company complies with specific environmental standards. European Green Deal : The EU strategy for achieving climate neutrality by 2050. Microplastics : Plastic particles smaller than 5mm, resulting from the fragmentation of larger plastic waste. Plastic Pellets : Small plastic granules used as raw material for industrial production. Authorized Representative : A person or entity designated to represent a non-EU company within the EU, ensuring compliance with local regulations.