The European Union has approved a new set of pollution rules that now include strict regulations for the maritime transport of plastic pellets, also known as nurdles. The decision comes in response to recent sea spills that left millions of microplastics washed up on European shores.
EU lawmakers and member states reached the agreement after rejecting the European Commission’s original proposal, which would have excluded sea freight from the new rules. Instead, the final law ensures that all shipping companies handling plastic pellets must meet higher safety standards, helping to prevent future environmental disasters.
Why Plastic Pellets Are Now a Priority
Plastic pellets are tiny raw materials used to make plastic products. When spilled at sea, they cause serious pollution, especially to marine life and coastlines. Over the past few years, multiple shipping accidents have released large amounts of these pellets into the ocean.
Lawmakers pointed out that about 38% of European cargo is transported by sea, making maritime shipping a major risk for accidental microplastic pollution. The new law ensures that these risks are no longer overlooked.
“We cannot ignore the damage these spills cause,” said César Luena, the Member of Parliament who led the law through the EU Parliament. “This law ensures that polluters are held responsible.”
New Safety Standards for Maritime Plastic Freight
Under the new rules, shipping companies must follow strict procedures when moving plastic pellets by sea. These include:
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Using durable, sealed packaging to reduce spill risks.
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Following International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines.
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Providing detailed cargo data on plastic pellet shipments.
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Adhering to specific handling and storage standards onboard vessels.
This is the first time maritime pellet transport has been regulated at the EU level, and experts say it fills a critical gap in Europe’s environmental protection framework.
Mandatory Audits and Certifications for Larger Shippers
The legislation also introduces audits and certifications for companies that handle high volumes of nurdles. Any firm shipping more than 1,500 tonnes of pellets per year must now:
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Undergo independent audits by certified inspectors.
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Receive official certification confirming compliance with the law.
However, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will be given flexibility. Most will be exempt from audits, reducing the burden on low-volume shippers while still promoting responsible handling.
“This law finds the right balance,” one EU official stated. “It protects the environment without punishing smaller businesses.”
Environmental Groups Praise the Move
Environmental organizations welcomed the new rules, though many had pushed for faster action. Frédérique Mongodin from Seas At Risk called the law “a major milestone” in the fight against microplastic pollution.
“Only binding laws can prevent these spills,” she said. “Voluntary measures were simply not enough.”
However, she criticized the three-year delay in regulating maritime freight, despite multiple warnings from scientists and ocean conservation groups.
EU Expands Its Fight Against Microplastics
The new law follows the EU’s 2023 ban on intentionally added microplastics in cosmetics, detergents, and other everyday items. That law targeted products made with microplastics on purpose.
Now, the EU is taking steps to prevent accidental microplastic pollution, especially from industrial transport and shipping. The shift reflects growing concern about the presence of microplastics in nature—and in people.
Recent studies have found plastic particles in:
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Fish and marine life
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Drinking water
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Human blood and organs
Scientists say microplastics can cross the blood-brain barrier, raising serious health concerns.
Holding Polluters Accountable
The new regulation is seen as a first step, with more rules expected in the future. Lawmakers have signaled interest in tighter controls on industrial plastic use and further protections for the marine environment.
“This is about preventing future disasters,” Luena added. “Europe must lead the way in protecting our oceans and our health.”
The law will be enforced across all 27 EU countries, and officials say they will work with international partners to push for similar global standards.