A coalition of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) has collectively called for urgent action from the European Commission on the adverse human health impact caused by plastic pollution.
The letter, commissioned by the not-for-profit organisation Plastic Soup Foundation, was signed by 25 cross-party MEPs representing five political parties and includes an appeal for the prohibition and reduction of the unintentional release of micro and nanoplastics.
Demands were made for the prohibition and reduction of the intentional and unintentional release of micro- and nanoplastics throughout the production cycle.
The letter also included a call for Executive Vice President of the European Commission Franz Timmermans to “show real leadership” and promote the advancement of technological developments that contribute to this change.
The letter reads: “The undersigned Members of the European Parliament are deeply concerned about the impact of microplastics on human and animal health and the limited action undertaken by the European Union (EU) in this area.
“We, therefore, call on the European Commission to deliver in this area and propose tangible solutions which would put an end to ‘Plasticine’ and protect the health of EU citizens.
The Commission should take a firm stand and show real leadership by prohibiting and minimising the intentional and unintentional release of microplastics.
“The Commission should take a firm stand and show real leadership by prohibiting and minimising the intentional and unintentional release of microplastics while promoting advanced technological developments supporting this change.”
Maria Westerbos, Founder & Director, Plastic Soup Foundation & Plastic Health Summit, commented: “The 20th century saw the dawn of the age of the plasticine. Now in 2023 plastic has pushed us to the point of humanitarian crisis.
“Plastic has become a dietary staple. It’s in our food. It’s in our bodies. And it’s hardwired into a world punch-drunk on hyper-consumption.
“Today I am proud to join 25 MEPs from across Europe in calling for urgent European Commission action on this issue. We must protect human health from the pernicious influence of plastic.”