EPA adds microplastics to watch list, signaling potential regulation
The federal government is taking a new, coordinated approach to study microplastic contamination, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Health and Human Services announced in April.
EPA has added microplastics to its proposed Sixth Contaminant Candidate List—open for public comment through June 5—a key step that could lead to future regulation. This initial review is focused on water quality and human exposure, though airborne microplastics could be examined in future phases.
“By placing microplastics…on the Contaminant Candidate List for the first time ever, EPA is sending a clear message: we will follow the science, we will pursue answers, and we will hold ourselves to the highest standards to protect the health of every American family,” EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said in a press release.
As policymakers and researchers take a closer look at plastic use and reuse, the issue has drawn increased attention across industries, including asphalt, America’s most recycled product. NAPA continues to work with industry partners to better understand the feasibility and performance of incorporating recycled plastics into asphalt pavements.
NAPA is closely monitoring federal regulatory activity to assess potential implications for asphalt pavement recycling, including the role of recycled plastics in asphalt mix and the impact of general road-wear materials on environmental microplastics load.
