ECHA: On Microplastic Release Reporting

As you may know, the EU-wide restriction on microplastics, which entered into force in October 2023, prohibits the intentional use of microplastics in products such as cosmetics, detergents, and certain agricultural products, as well as in some processes where these microplastics are released into the environment. According to ECHA, the Regulation introduces reporting obligations for manufacturers, importers, downstream users, and suppliers placing SPMs or products containing SPMs on the market for certain exempted uses, with the aim of helping monitor and reduce microplastic emissions.

Reporting Process for SPMs Has Opened

In an article published on its website, ECHA announced that companies can now begin reporting their annual releases under the microplastics restriction. This obligation applies to exempted uses of synthetic polymer microparticles (SPMs), and the deadlines for submitting reports are specified as follows:

ECHA notes that examples of exempted SPM uses include veterinary and human medicinal products, food additives, in vitro diagnostic devices, and certain uses at industrial sites.

Who is subject to the obligation?

The obligation applies to manufacturers, importers, and downstream users alike. In addition, suppliers of SPMs and products containing SPMs are subject to the requirements under certain conditions, particularly when placing such products on the market for the first time.

How should the reports be prepared?

Companies must prepare annual release reports in IUCLID format and submit them to ECHA via REACH-IT. It should be noted that for now, only initial submissions are possible in REACH-IT. Updates will be allowed from Q2 2026.

During this process, companies may use ECHA’s guidance and informational materials, as well as the IUCLID dataset prepared to support users.

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