An Ireland South MEP has welcomed a provisional agreement on a new EU regulation to reduce pollution.
Plastic pellet losses are a major source of microplastic pollution, and often contaminate land, sea, and ecosystems, during production, transport, and handling.
Fianna Fáil’s Billy Kelleher says the regulation will oblige everyone handling plastic pellets to prevent losses and spills at every stage of the supply chain, both on land and at sea.
The rules will apply to anyone handling more than five tonnes of plastic pellets a year, including cleaners, shippers, and transport operators.
This marks the first time the maritime sector will be subject to such obligations.
The regulation will introduce measures such as mandatory risk management plans, immediate reporting of accidents or losses, proper packaging and handling procedures, and requirements for operators to notify authorities about their activities.
Smaller operators (handling over 1,500 tonnes annually) will have simpler requirements, such as a one-time certification, while micro-entities and companies handling fewer than 1,500 tonnes annually will only need to provide a self-declaration of conformity.
Non-EU carriers must appoint an authorised representative in the EU to ensure accountability and maintain a level playing field.
MEP Kelleher claims the EU is setting a new global standard in the fight against microplastic pollution by ensuring responsibility across the plastic pellet supply chain.
