Microplastics: What to Know

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles—typically less than 5 millimeters in size—that can result from the breakdown of larger plastic products over time or be intentionally added to products for specific functions. They can form through wear, use, and improper disposal, which is why reducing waste and improving recovery systems is critical. 

The main sources of microplastics are tire wear particles, synthetic fibers from textiles, degradation of unmanaged waste, and flaking paint from roads and buildings. These products can release fragments into the environment through everyday activities like driving, washing clothes, and weathering. While estimates vary as to the amount each source contributes, tire wear and synthetic fibers from textiles are thought to be the largest contributors of microplastics entering the environment.

Our industry is investing in innovations that reduce the potential for plastics to enter the environment. We’re designing products for reuse and recyclability, expanding recycling infrastructure, and supporting cutting-edge research. We’re also collaborating with scientists, governments, and businesses to unlock targeted, science-based solutions to address microplastic pollution. 

Innovations in product design and recycling technologies are making it easier to reuse plastics. A circular economy—where plastic is collected at end of life and remade into new products rather than discarded—means less plastic waste overall, and over time, fewer microplastics generated. Advanced recycling technologies also help conserve natural resources and reduce the environmental footprint of plastic. 

Yes. Globally, our industry has supported over 100 researchers across 37 institutions to advance the science on microplastics. We’re investing in research related to microplastics behavior in the environment, potential health impacts, and the development of standardized testing methods. Through the Microplastics Advanced Research and Innovation Initiative (MARII) platform, we facilitate global collaboration to enhance research quality and consistency. 

We support science-based policies that: 

• Target solutions based on a real assessment of risks, which includes understanding both hazard and exposure. 
• Encourage innovation, including R&D and advanced recycling. 
• Foster public-private partnerships. 
• Provide regulatory certainty for investment. 
• Recognize distinctions between intentionally added and unintentionally generated microplastics. 

We also support consistent international standards and oppose fragmented or symbolic policies that create inefficiencies and raise costs without measurable impact.

We believe blanket bans or symbolic caps often miss the mark. Instead, we support targeted, fact-based interventions—like improved wastewater treatment and enhanced recycling systems—that are more likely to reduce environmental impact. It’s also important to differentiate between types of microplastics. For example, some intentionally added microplastics serve critical purposes, such as slow-release fertilizers or crop protection. 

Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) is an industry-led stewardship program designed to help prevent plastic resin loss during manufacturing and transport. Active in more than 60 countries, OCS provides guidelines and accountability tools to help companies achieve zero pellet loss. In the U.S., members are required to report data quarterly and undergo third-party verification under OCS Blue and OCS Logistics programs. 

Operation Clean Sweep isn’t just voluntary guidance—it now includes mandatory reporting and third-party verification for U.S. members. These accountability measures reflect our commitment to continuous improvement and transparency. The program spans the entire value chain, bringing together producers, shippers, and converters to prevent plastic pellet loss at every step. 

Plastics play a critical role in making modern life more affordable and sustainable—from reducing food waste and delivering clean water to enabling life-saving medical devices and energy-efficient building materials. Policies addressing microplastics must take these societal benefits into account and avoid unintended economic, environmental, or human health consequences.