News outlet Euractiv publishes special report on packaging and environment; featured articles and interviews address circular economy and plastics strategy unveiled by EU Commission
January 31, 2018
Standard methods for measuring microplastics needed
New study by Danish Environmental Protection Agency highlights need for standardized analytical methods to capture small and large microplastic particles
January 26, 2018
Definition of nanoplastics
Scientists propose defining nanoplastics as unintentionally produced particles sized between 1 to 1000 nm and exhibiting colloidal behavior, discuss future research needs
January 23, 2018
ECHA prepares oxo- and microplastics restrictions
ECHA drafts restriction proposals for oxo-degradable plastics and microplastics to support European Commission’s plastics strategy
January 17, 2018
EU plastics strategy published
European Commission adopts EU-wide strategy for plastics in the circular economy, aims to make all plastic packaging recyclable, reduce single-use plastics, ban intentional microplastics
January 9, 2018
Public consultation on marine litter and single-use plastics
EU Commission seeks feedback regarding actions on single-use plastics to reduce marine litter; consultation open until February 12, 2018
November 17, 2017
Microplastics in mineral water
Scientists detect microplastics in mineral waters packed in plastic bottles, glass bottles, beverage cartons; highest content found in carbonated water from refillable plastic bottles; packaging is one possible contamination source
November 7, 2017
Call to ban oxo-degradable plastics
Statement from Ellen MacArthur Foundation calls for global ban on oxo-degradable plastic packaging; signatories include major businesses, trade associations, NGOs, scientists and government representatives
September 26, 2017
Hazardous chemicals in different materials
Swedish Chemicals Agency to map hazardous substances in rubber, silicone, paper and board, targeting chemicals of concern not yet regulated in the EU
September 26, 2017
Testing drinking water for microplastics
Danish Environmental Protection Agency to measure microplastics in drinking water; study to be completed by early 2018
