Decorative glitter were banned in Europe

Decorative glitter were banned in Europe
Katerina Belousova

A transition period has been established for some products with microplastics

In Europe, since October 17, the sale of glitter and products made from it, that is, plastic sparkles, has been banned in order to limit microplastic pollution, which is harmful to the environment.

The ban will not apply to greener glitter that doesn't pollute oceans, including biodegradable, soluble, natural or inorganic glitter, the site says European Commission.

It is noted that goods with glitter that are already in stores or in warehouses can continue to be sold until stocks run out.

The press service explained that microplastic, in particular plastic glitter, which is used by itself or in goods for which a certain transition period has been established, for example, cosmetics, detergents, can continue to be sold until:

  • October 16, 2027 inclusive, for wash-off cosmetics;
  • October 16, 2029 inclusive for leave-on cosmetics;
  • October 16, 2035 inclusive for make-up, lip and nail cosmetics.

From October 17, 2031 to October 16, 2035, to continue being sold, cosmetics, lip products and nail products must carry a label indicating that they do not contain microplastics.

Earlier, EcoPolitic wrote, that scientists at the George R. Brown School of Engineering at the American Rice University found that microplastics contribute to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

As EcoPolitic previously reported, a study by Austrian scientists showed that particles of polystyrene, plastic from food wrap, can enter the human brain. This can increase the risk of inflammation, neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.

Related
The EUDR "forest" regulation has been postponed for a year. What does this mean for Ukraine?
The EUDR "forest" regulation has been postponed for a year. What does this mean for Ukraine?

The implementation of the requirements of the regulation on logging for large operators was to start on December 30, 2025

Plus 42 days of summer: scientists predict an increase in the heatwave period in Europe
Plus 42 days of summer: scientists predict an increase in the heatwave period in Europe

Europe is warming faster than anywhere else in the world. By the end of the century, summer here will last up to eight months

More than 30% of new materials in the Netherlands are recycled products. The EU average is 12%
More than 30% of new materials in the Netherlands are recycled products. The EU average is 12%

The country with the lowest circularity rate is Romania, with a coefficient of 1.3%

European Commission report on Ukraine: positives and shortcomings of environmental legislation
European Commission report on Ukraine: positives and shortcomings of environmental legislation

Ukraine received its highest score in the European Commission's report, along with a set of recommendations on harmonizing national legislation with European standards