Use in the EU of liquid and poorly biodegradable plastics
25.11.2019
Question for written answer E-004012/2019
to the Commission
Rule 138
Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE)
In accordance with the precautionary principle, the use of liquid plastics and other PBT/vPvB substances, whose biodegradation pathways and environmental impact are uncertain and which cannot subsequently be removed from the environment, should be prevented. However, that is not the case.
In a study carried out by a German institute for environment, security and energy technology it was calculated that, in Germany, 23 200 tonnes of poorly biodegradable, organic polymers (liquid plastics) are directly discharged into the sewage system through washing, cleaning and cleaning products every year. As regards cosmetic products, the proportion is conservatively estimated to be around 23 700 tonnes which, through use when washing, also end up in the sewage system [1] . In 2017, the Commission requested the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to propose a restriction on microplastics. However, liquid polymers were not included [2] .
- 1.Is it known how many liquid, poorly biodegradable polymers are used in the EU?
- 2.Are there alternatives to these substances and, if so, what are they? Is the Commission aware of any studies or assessments of the short and long term environmental impact?
- 3.Does the Commission intend to take measures against such polymers and, if so, what measures and when?