On Monday, the European Commission restricted the sale of plastic waste and products, intentionally releasing microplastics during use.

Plastic waste, or plastic pollution, is ‘the accumulation of plastic objects such as plastic bottles and food containers in the earth’s environment that adversely affects wildlife, wildlife habitat, and humans.’

The EU’s restriction should help prevent the release of half a million tonnes of microplastics into the environment.

The commission said that around 42,000 tonnes of microplastics intentionally added to products are released into the environment in the European Union every year.

“Microplastics are found in the seas, rivers, and on land, as well as in food and drinking water,” EU Environment Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius said in a statement.

“Today’s restriction concerns very small particles, but it is a big step towards reducing human-made pollution,” he added.

The legislation covers all synthetic polymer particles below five millimetres that are organic, insoluble, and resist degradation.

This includes granular material used, such as infill on artificial turf, in cosmetics such as exfoliants and glitter, but also in detergents, toys, plant protection material, or medical devices.

Some measures, like the ban on loose glitter, are to apply within 20 days, the commission said, while other restrictions are to enter into force after a transition period.

(dpa/NAN)