In a groundbreaking move, the EU has introduced new rules. These rules demand that certain companies pay for microplastic cleanup. Specifically, they must cover at least 80% of the costs. The government will handle the remaining expenses.
This initiative targets industries like cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. They are now expected to contribute to quaternary treatment costs. This approach marks the first application of the "polluter pays" principle in the water sector. The main aim is to shift financial responsibility for pollution cleanup away from public funds.
Virginijus Sinkevičius, the Commissioner for Environment, Oceans, and Fisheries, praised the agreement. He stated, “With the agreement reached today, we ensure not only cleaner water for all Europeans but so much more.” He highlighted benefits like better sanitation, the application of the polluter pays principle, and energy autonomy. Sinkevičius believes these changes will transform the sector, making it resilient for the future.
Earlier, in September 2023, the EU had already made strides against microplastic pollution. It passed a law to phase out intentionally added microplastics. This applies to products like cosmetics and toys. The law aims to cut microplastic waste by half a million metric tons.
The latest rules are part of the EU's Zero Pollution Action Plan. This plan aims to reduce microplastic pollution by 30% by 2030. They propose revisions to the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. This includes more monitoring for PFAS and health-related parameters in water.
The directive also seeks to improve stormwater management. This is due to the increase in heavy rainfall events from climate change. Additionally, it aims to enhance wastewater quality for reuse.
The next step is the official adoption of the new directive. Once published in the Official Journal of the EU, it will become effective 20 days later.
Nils Torvalds, a Member of the European Parliament, supported the directive. He said, “The deal we reached today is a breakthrough.” He believes it will significantly improve water management and wastewater treatment in Europe. Torvalds also noted that the legislation considers the cost impact on medicines.
Samira is an Electronics and Communications Engineer by profession, but deep inside, her heart is a nomad! She's a state champion debater, a public speaker, a scriptwriter, a theater actress, but most importantly — A GREEN CITIZEN! She thinks of herself as a storyteller who thrives on enjoying the life at fullest and telling everyone the tales of life.
Business & Policies ,
EU Drafts Game-Changing Microplastic Cleanup Rule
by : Samira Tasneem | Published: February 7, 2024
EU’s new rule mandates companies to fund 80% of microplastic cleanup, revolutionizing pollution responsibility.
In a groundbreaking move, the EU has introduced new rules. These rules demand that certain companies pay for microplastic cleanup. Specifically, they must cover at least 80% of the costs. The government will handle the remaining expenses.
This initiative targets industries like cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. They are now expected to contribute to quaternary treatment costs. This approach marks the first application of the "polluter pays" principle in the water sector. The main aim is to shift financial responsibility for pollution cleanup away from public funds.
Earlier, in September 2023, the EU had already made strides against microplastic pollution. It passed a law to phase out intentionally added microplastics. This applies to products like cosmetics and toys. The law aims to cut microplastic waste by half a million metric tons.
The latest rules are part of the EU's Zero Pollution Action Plan. This plan aims to reduce microplastic pollution by 30% by 2030. They propose revisions to the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. This includes more monitoring for PFAS and health-related parameters in water.
The directive also seeks to improve stormwater management. This is due to the increase in heavy rainfall events from climate change. Additionally, it aims to enhance wastewater quality for reuse.
The next step is the official adoption of the new directive. Once published in the Official Journal of the EU, it will become effective 20 days later.
Nils Torvalds, a Member of the European Parliament, supported the directive. He said, “The deal we reached today is a breakthrough.” He believes it will significantly improve water management and wastewater treatment in Europe. Torvalds also noted that the legislation considers the cost impact on medicines.
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Samira Tasneem
Samira is an Electronics and Communications Engineer by profession, but deep inside, her heart is a nomad! She's a state champion debater, a public speaker, a scriptwriter, a theater actress, but most importantly — A GREEN CITIZEN! She thinks of herself as a storyteller who thrives on enjoying the life at fullest and telling everyone the tales of life.
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