Microplastics Policy
and Regulation
Good policy starts with good science
This page highlights microplastics policies, regulations, and proposals—focusing on how science and innovation can guide effective solutions. Centered on the U.S. but informed by global developments, you’ll find insights into evolving policy approaches and opportunities to advance science-based, practical action on microplastics.
Latest Policy Articles
Microplastics in Drinking Water and EPA Action: Are Science and Regulation Ready Yet?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent decision to include microplastics as a priority contaminant group on the draft Sixth Contaminant Candidate List (CCL6) reflects growing federal attention on microplastics. While awareness and discussion of microplastics are increasing, this move raises important questions about whether the foundational science, tools, and infrastructure are ready to support such a significant step.
Microplastics Are Not Chemicals – California’s SCP Program Is the Wrong Tool to Regulate Them
Framework mismatch: California’s Safer Consumer Products (SCP) program is designed to regulate specific, well-defined chemicals with known identities and properties; microplastics are a diverse set of materials both physically and chemically, not a single substance or chemical family.
Sound Data, Smart Microplastics Policy
The Plastic Health Research Act (PHRA) aims to create a coordinated, multi-agency program on microplastics and nanoplastics research built on science-based methods and definitions.