Overview
Entry 78 of REACH Annex XVII (introduced by Regulation (EU) 2023/2055) restricts placing on the market of intentionally added synthetic polymer microparticles (microplastics) on their own or in mixtures.
Ordinary synthetic garments that shed fibres during washing are not the target of this restriction. Fashion relevance is mainly intentional additives such as loose plastic glitter or similar decorative microparticles that are not permanently incorporated into an article.
Broader textile microfibre shedding is expected to be addressed later through ESPR design requirements rather than this REACH entry.
Key requirements
- Check embellishments and craft-style decorations for intentionally added microplastics.
- Do not place restricted loose glitter / microparticle mixtures on the EU market where no derogation or transitional period applies.
- Treat permanently affixed sequins/articles differently from loose microparticle mixtures—document the article vs mixture analysis.
Who’s affected
Companies placing glitter, decorative microparticle mixtures or similarly formulated products on the EU market, including some fashion accessory and textile embellishment suppliers.
Timeline
17 October 2023
Restriction begins to apply (with staggered transitional periods for some uses).
Ongoing
Sector guidance continues; ESPR may later address textile fibre shedding separately.
How Carbon Trail helps
How Carbon Trail can help
- Map which products, markets and legal entities fall in scope.
- Structure product, supplier and emissions data needed for disclosures and EPR reporting.
- Track timelines, owners and evidence gaps across overlapping fashion regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Are polyester T-shirts banned by this REACH restriction?
No. The restriction targets intentionally added microplastics in the REACH sense, not synthetic textile articles themselves.
