REACH · Microplastics
Microplastics reporting: prepare for the 2027 deadline
Annual ECHA reporting starts in 2027 for further groups of duty holders. Their first report, due by 31 May 2027, covers 2026, so data collection should already be in place.
Reviewed on 6 November 2026.
Who must report?
Paragraphs 11 and 12 of entry 78 in Annex XVII to REACH, introduced by Regulation (EU) 2023/2055, establish reporting requirements. These do not automatically apply to every business using plastics or selling a product containing polymers. First check the definition of synthetic polymer microparticles, the use and the relevant derogation.
Reporting starts in 2027 for other manufacturers of synthetic polymer microparticles and other industrial downstream users using them at industrial sites. It also starts in 2027 for suppliers of products covered by paragraphs 4(b), 4(d), 4(e) and 5 that are placed on the market for the first time for professional users and the general public. Identify which legal entity performs that first supply.
Reporting has already started for some businesses
For manufacturers and industrial downstream users of pellets, flakes and powders used as feedstock in plastic manufacturing at industrial sites, reporting began in 2026. The first deadline was 31 May 2026 for 2025 data. The year 2027 is therefore not a general postponement.
Reports are due annually by 31 May for the preceding calendar year. Reporting dates must be distinguished from marketing restrictions, transitional periods and instructions for use and disposal.
Which information should you prepare?
- A list of relevant substances and products, with polymer information from suppliers.
- A description of uses or end uses and generic polymer identity.
- Estimated environmental releases for each use, including releases during transport.
- A reference to the relevant derogation.
- A documented estimation method and the underlying records.
Connect purchasing, production, sales and waste records. The quantity of polymer purchased is not itself an estimate of environmental emissions: processes and measures preventing losses must be considered.
How is the report submitted?
Prepare the report in the applicable IUCLID format and submit it through REACH-IT. Check the legal entity details, reporting scope and validation results before submission. Retain the submission confirmation and supporting records.
Need help with your first report?
Send your product descriptions, polymer details and supply-chain role to info@bisafe.si. Our microplastics reporting service – IUCLID 6 and REACH-IT covers assessment of obligations and support with data preparation and submission.
