Microplastics vary in size from 5 mm to microscopic levels, and there is scientific evidence that they contaminate the soil – which can harm agriculture – and that leak in navigable and sea leads to ingestion by animals, including fish, which in turn are consumed by humans.
According to some scientific studies, accidental consumption of microplastics may present health risks, such as reduced fertility and cancer. The public is aware of these dangers and hopes that the block will adopt more strict measures.
“I have heard that microplastics can even penetrate the cerebral cortex, part of our brain. When they enter our blood circulation, they have a serious impact on reproductive health,” said a resident of Athens (Greece).
“I believe that the European Union could decide to use less plastic, both in industry and in our daily consumption,” said another resident in Brussels (Belgium).
The institutions have just concluded an agreement on a new regulation which establishes obligations for companies that store plastic pellets in their premises and for those who transport them.
“Large companies that move more than 1,500 tonnes per year will have to obtain certification from an independent third party. Small businesses that move more than 1,500 tonnes per year will have to obtain unique certification. Small businesses that move less than 1000 tonnes and micro-backed will have to publish a problem for Euronews,” said Gregoire Lory, which covers the problem for Euronews.
Why and how will non-EU operators comply?
Each year, the equivalent to 7,300 trucks of plastic granules is lost in the environment. The European Commission believes that new rules should reduce plastic pellet losses up to 74%. To achieve this, the rules will also apply to the operators not of the EU.
“Companies outside the EU working in our territory must have an authorized representative who explains how they comply with European standards at each competent authority in the Member States,” said Caesar Luena, one of the main negotiators of the European Parliament.
Certain non -governmental organizations are against exemptions and delays on implementation, with a particular criticism of the most indulgent rules for small businesses.
“SMEs in fact represent the vast majority of the plastic supply chain, representing 98% conversion and 97% transport and storage,” said Gregoire Lory.
Maritime Transport will have three instead of two years, just like other companies, to comply with the rules, despite the high level of pollution at sea. The pressure comes from certain Member States with significant maritime economic activity.
“Cyprus, Greece, Malta and Croatia were one of the countries that asked for three years because they needed more time to adapt,” confirmed the parliamentarian.
Violations of the new rules on the storage and transport of plastic pellets could lead to fines of at least 3% of the turnover of a company in the EU. Governments can also initiate criminal proceedings in the event of serious contamination.
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Journalist: Isabel Marques da Silva
ADVERTISEMENTContent production: Pilar Montero López
Video Production: Zacharia Vigneron
Graphic: Loredana Dumitru
Edine coordination:
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