EU REACH Microplastics emissions reporting deadlines

August 7th, 2026

The EU-wide restriction on microplastics, which entered into force in October 2023, bans the intentional use of microplastics in products such as cosmetics, detergents, certain agricultural products, and certain processes that release them into the environment.

Some uses are exempted from the ban but require rigorous reporting by manufacturers, importers, and downstream users.

The European Chemicals Agency is expecting the first reports by the end of May 2026, with the next deadline covering a larger group of suppliers and products coming up in May 2027.

The annual reporting obligation applies to uses of synthetic polymer microparticles (SPMs) exempted from the ban, such as in veterinary and human medicines, food additives, in vitro diagnostic devices, and uses at industrial sites. The first deadlines are for manufacturers and industrial downstream users of SPMs:

  • in the form of pellets, flakes, and powders, used as raw material in plastic production at industrial sites – 31 May 2026
  • for all other uses at industrial sites, as well as for suppliers placing SPM-containing products on the market for the first time for specific exempted uses by professionals or the public – 31 May 2027

Reports must cover emissions from the previous calendar year. Affected companies are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the rather complex reporting requirements and prepare well ahead of the deadlines.

H2 Compliance supports companies in the assessment of their obligations and the fulfilment of reporting obligations. For support, reach out to the relevant team here.

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