Intentionally Added Microplastics in Products - Assessment Report on Issues of Concern

A two-page summary of the information on microplastics contained in the 2020 UNEP Assessment Report on Issues of Concern: Chemicals and Waste Issues Posing Risks to Human Health and the Environment and the 2019 Global Chemicals Outlook II. Microplastics are solid particles made of synthetic polymers, typically defined as smaller than 5 mm. Microplastics have been intentionally added to a wide range of products and application areas for diverse technical functions. For example, they are added in cosmetics and personal care products, detergents and maintenance products, agriculture and horticulture, medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices, medicinal products for human and veterinary use, food supplements, paints, coatings and inks, oil and gas drilling and production, plastics, technical ceramics, media for abrasive blasting, adhesives, 3D printing materials and printing inks.