The Environmental Protection (Microbeads) (England) Regulations 2017 prohibit the manufacture and supply of rinse-off personal care products containing plastic microbeads in England. The Regulations were introduced to prevent plastic microbeads from entering the environment, where they contribute to microplastic pollution and pose risks to animal health and ecosystems. The regime combines criminal offences with a comprehensive civil sanctions and enforcement framework.
Plastic microbeads were historically used in certain personal care products for exfoliation and cleansing. However, due to their small size, they pass through wastewater treatment systems and accumulate in rivers, seas, and marine life. These Regulations implement one of the world’s strictest bans on microbeads, targeting both manufacturing and commercial supply activities. Enforcement responsibility sits primarily with local authorities acting as regulators.
Benefits of compliance:
