EC adopts controversial ban on rubber infill in synthetic pitches

Brussels – The European Commission (EC) has applied measures to restrict the use of ‘intentionally added microplastics’ in products under the EU chemical legislation REACH.

Adopted by on 25 Sept, the EU legislation will eventually end the use of granular elastomeric materials from waste tires and other sources as infill in synthetic turf.

The ban also covers 'microplastics' used in cosmetics, 'glitter' detergents, fabric softeners, fertilisers, plant-protection products, toys, medicines and medical devices.

Initial restrictions, namely a ban on loose glitter and microbeads, will apply 20 days after the day the legislation entered into force.

For infill material for sport pitches, the ban applies after eight years “to give pitch owners and managers the time to switch to alternatives.”

The move, according to an EC statement, will also allow for most existing sport pitches to reach their end-of-life.

According to the EC, the ban prevents the release of 500,000 tonnes of microplastics into the environment, at a cost of €19 billion, over 20 years.

Products used at industrial sites or not releasing microplastics during use are exempt from the sale ban, EC added.

However, manufacturers must provide instructions about how to use and dispose of the products to prevent microplastic emissions.