On November 26, 2025, the Official Journal of the European Union published Regulation (EU) 2025/2365, titled “Regulation on Preventing Plastic Pellet Losses to Reduce Microplastic Pollution.” This regulation aims to prevent plastic pellet leakage across the entire supply chain, reduce microplastic pollution, and support the EU’s objective of achieving “zero plastic pellet loss.” Below are the main highlights:
I. Scope of Application
The regulation applies to all natural and legal persons handling or transporting plastic pellets within the EU, including:
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Economic operators managing ≥5 tons of pellets annually;
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Facilities responsible for cleaning pellet containers or storage tanks;
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EU and non-EU transporters;
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Shippers, ship operators, agents, and shipmasters involved in maritime container transport of plastic pellets.
II. Key Definitions
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Plastic pellets: Polymer materials used in plastic production—pellets, powders, microbeads, etc.
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Loss: Pellets escaping from a facility or vehicle into the environment.
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Spill: Pellets escaping within a facility or vehicle but not entering the environment.
III. Core Obligations
1. Obligations for Economic Operators
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Develop and implement a risk management plan (risk assessment, equipment, control measures).
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Report facility details and annual pellet handling volumes to authorities.
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Large and medium enterprises handling ≥1,500 tons/year must obtain a compliance certificate.
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Small enterprises may submit a self-declaration (renewed every 5 years).
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Conduct employee training and maintain annual records of estimated pellet loss.
2. Obligations for Transporters (EU & Non-EU)
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Adopt pellet loss prevention measures—e.g., checking packaging integrity, cleaning vehicles, using sealed containers.
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Non-EU transporters must appoint an authorized EU representative.
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Maritime transport must use high-quality packaging; containers should be stored below deck or in protected areas wherever possible.
IV. Compliance Options
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Certification Route: Obtain certification from an accredited body.
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Permit Route: Operators with existing environmental permits and regular inspections may be exempt.
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Environmental Management System Route: EMAS-registered or equivalent EMS-certified companies may receive certain exemptions.
V. Incident Response & Penalties
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Operators must immediately report any pellet loss, implement emergency response actions, and submit a formal incident report.
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Non-compliance may result in administrative fines (up to 3% of annual turnover) or criminal penalties.
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Individuals affected by health impacts may seek legal compensation.
The regulation becomes applicable from 17 December 2027. The European Commission will review its implementation in 2033.
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