PED: Statement on a study on microplastics in the Rhine
The association of German plastics manufacturers has commented on the discovery of plastic beads in the Rhine.
A new pilot study by the State Office for Nature, Environment and Climate (LANUK) in North Rhine-Westphalia has shown that industrial microplastics are entering the Rhine, according to a press release from Plastics Europe Germany (PED). Accordingly, the study examined wastewater from four chemical sites and water samples from nine locations on the Rhine between Bonn and Duisburg. Between just under one and over two thousand beads less than 1 millimetre in size were found in the wastewater per cubic metre of water. According to LANUK, the study aims to identify the sources of pollution more precisely and raise awareness of the problem among companies in the region.
PED CEO Dr Christine Bunte commented on the findings: ‘The LANUK study is an important indication for us that further efforts are needed to prevent industrial plastic particles from entering the environment. Plastics Europe member companies are already implementing a series of measures to prevent the loss of plastic granulate, for example by installing additional filters, improving filling processes and raising employee awareness.’ From Bunte's perspective, these measures are highly important to the companies, as she observed during plant visits by members of the PED. She emphasises: "The goal is to allow zero pellet loss. We have to get closer to that. We are now checking whether our members are affected and, if so, where the problem lies. In addition, we will work even more closely with the entire value chain to raise awareness of the proper handling of plastic granulate.‘
The statement also refers to the voluntary initiative ’Operation Clean Sweep®", which is coordinated by Plastics Europe, the pan-European association of plastics manufacturers, and established in cooperation with companies throughout the plastics value chain. The initiative of the European plastics industry aims to help companies and plants introduce processes that keep plastic materials out of waterways and prevent the loss of plastic pellets, flakes and powder. The OCS programme provides recommendations, information and tools, as well as a harmonised certification system developed for Europe to combat pellet leakage.
Further information:
Sources:
- Press release Plastics Europe Deutschland (18.8.2025)
- Plastics Europe Deutschland website
- Photo: © Plastics Europe Deutschland