The proposal prioritizes prevention, containment, and cleanup, and includes best handling practices, mandatory certification, and self-declarations for operators. A harmonized methodology will be developed to estimate losses, with lighter requirements for small and micro-operators. The proposal will be discussed by the European Parliament and the Council, and compliance is required within 18 months of its entry into force.

Microplastics are a significant environmental concern, found globally and even in the human body. They pose risks to ecosystems and human health. The Commission's approach involves reducing pollution from plastic products, restricting the use of intentionally added microplastics, and reducing unintentional microplastic releases.

These rules, along with previous restrictions on intentionally added microplastics, aim to cut microplastic releases by 30% by 2030, in line with the Zero Pollution Action Plan.