It is a major problem if large amounts of tiny plastic beads, known as plastic pellets, end up in the sea. It is a form of plastic pollution that can be incredibly difficult to clean up.

It is an important step forward that The European Union has adopted binding rules to secure safer transport of plastic pellets.

“The rules have a strong focus on prevention, containment, and effective clean-up of spills. This is exactly what we have been asking for. I’m pleased that the rules strengthen environmental safeguards while avoiding excessive administrative burdens on the maritime sector and ensuring fair competition between EU and non-EU carriers. This is a balanced and pragmatic approach that we can fully support,” said Nina Porst, Director of Climate, Environment and Security at Danish Shipping.

Crucially, the regulation introduces specific obligations for sea-going vessels transporting plastic pellets, fully aligned with IMO recom­men­da­tions. These measures reaffirm the shipping industry’s commitment to sustainability and support a coherent international regulatory framework.

Danish Shipping particularly welcomes the regulation’s openness to future developments. Should the IMO adopt additional global measures to address marine pollution from plastic pellet spills, the EU framework is designed to evolve accordingly.