2018
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About this document
In April 2018, the Department of the Environment and Energy, conducted an assessment of progress toward the voluntary industry-led phase-out of microbeads from rinse-off cosmetic, personal care and cleaning products. The assessment was conducted in consultation with the New South Wales Government and Acord, the national industry association representing manufacturers and suppliers.
Background
The Meeting of Environment Ministers in February 2015 expressed concern about the impact of microbeads on the marine environment. To address this concern, Ministers asked officials to work with industry to secure a voluntary agreement to phase out microbeads in personal care, cosmetic and cleaning products by no later than 1 July 2018. Ministers stated that if the voluntary phase-out was not effective, they would move to implement a ban.
Key findings
- Industry is on track to successfully phase out microbeads in rinse-off, personal care, cosmetic and cleaning products by 1 July 2018.
- Companies are aware of the expectation that they phase out microbeads and in the majority of cases have either phased them out already or committed to doing so.
- An independent assessment of the sale of products that could potentially contain microbeads showed that the majority of products surveyed were microbead-free.
- Areas prioritised for industry follow-up include eliminating microbeads in the remaining rinse-off products and engaging companies that are not member of Acord.
- Accord has agreed to work with the Australian and NSW governments to finalise and implement a monitoring and compliance protocol, which will include actions to ensure the phase-out continues to be effective.