3 reasons to switch to microplastic-free film coatings now
Why early adoption matters for product validation, internal readiness, and the well-being of people and planet — plus insights on PPP transition timelines and the shelflife of biodegradable microplastic-free coatings.
CONTENTS
- 3 reasons to switch to microplastic-free film coatings now
- Why PPPs may still contain microplastics until 2031
- MPF products: what happens in storage?
3 reasons to switch to microplastic-free products now
In 2023 the European Commission adopted the microplastic restriction as proposed by ECHA. The Commission took a major step to protect the environment by adopting measures that restrict microplastics intentionally added to products by 2028.
1. Although the restriction will not come into force before 2028 in Europe, if you want to be sure new products truly meet your seed quality and safety standards, you will need sufficient time to validate performance on a commercial scale. Especially if you choose not to, or are unable to, switch all varieties or crops at once.
2. A second reason to switch early is that your internal organisation needs time to adjust. We advise you to start using different products at an early stage, to allow your employees sufficient time to get used to this.
3. Let’s face it: having products (any products) without microplastics in them is the right thing to do - for us and for the environment. And the sooner this can be realised, the better.
Why PPPs may still contain microplastics until 2031
Between 2028 and 2031 in the European Union, some seeds will be treated with microplastic-free (MPF) film coats while the plant protection products (PPPs) incorporated into them still contain microplastics.
This is why: ECHA (European Chemical Agency) has advised the legislators that transitioning products from microplastic-containing to microplastic-free might take (up to) 5 years and having them reregistered could take a further 3 years. This is the reason that a transition period of 8 years in total was granted for plant protection products.
MPF products: what happens in storage?
Is it true that biodegradable microplastic-free products have a shorter shelf life?
Incotec’s head of Global Research and Development Jonas Altoe: “Thankfully, no. To ensure the stability and longevity of our liquid coatings, we incorporate preservatives that effectively prevent microbial growth. This safeguards the product from biodegradation and guarantees a shelf life of at least two years when stored under the recommended conditions. Once applied to seeds, the coating maintains its performance, matching the reliability of previous generation film coats.
Biodegradation of the applied film coat only takes place after contact with water. Properly stored seeds show no negative impact from the coating, preserving key properties such as dust-off and flowability”