Welcome to Higginson Strategy’s weekly round-up of international news relating to plastic pollution.
This week, EU lawmakers moved closer to restricting “forever chemicals” in cosmetics, as concerns grow over the environmental persistence and health risks of PFAS, though debate continues over how strict the rules should be. Research highlights how plastic waste is exacerbating urban flood risks in the Philippines by blocking drainage systems and intensifying the impacts of extreme rainfall, prompting calls to integrate waste management into core infrastructure planning. A new consumer study by Cotton Incorporated shows rising concern over microplastic fibres in clothing is shifting demand toward natural materials, while confusion around labelling continues to hinder more sustainable choices. In the UK, a pilot facility has opened to convert hard-to-recycle plastics into aviation fuel, signalling early progress toward scaling circular solutions for both waste and emissions. Finally, scientists from the University of New England have developed a low-cost method to standardise how microplastics are measured in soils, aiming to improve global monitoring and better understand risks to agriculture and human health.
Bid to restrict use of ‘forever chemicals’ in cosmetics
EU lawmakers are considering new restrictions on so-called “forever chemicals” in cosmetics, amid growing concern over their persistence in the environment and potential risks to human health. The proposal would limit the use of PFAS substances which are valued for their durability but are difficult to break down. Policymakers face pressure to balance health protections with industry concerns, as debate continues over how strict the rules should be and what exemptions, if any, should apply.
Read more here.
Plastic waste is reshaping flood protection in cities
Plastic waste is increasingly being recognised as a key driver of urban flood risk in the Philippines, as blocked drainage systems and waterways struggle to cope with growing volumes of debris during heavy rainfall. Research and real-world examples show that waste accumulation can trigger infrastructure failures, redirect water flows and worsen the impacts of extreme weather. Experts argue that cities must treat plastic management as part of core infrastructure, with upstream interception and better waste systems seen as critical to improving resilience and reducing future flood damage.
Read more here.
Study shows shoppers prioritise natural fibres as microplastics awareness grows
Rising awareness of microplastic pollution is beginning to reshape consumer behaviour in the apparel sector, with more shoppers actively seeking clothing made from natural or microplastic-free fibres. A recent study by Cotton Incorporated shows growing concern about synthetic textiles, alongside increased willingness to make sustainable choices, though confusion around labelling and guidance remains a barrier. The shift in sentiment is expected to push brands and manufacturers toward clearer fibre disclosure, improved messaging and greater use of low-shedding or natural materials.
Read more here.
‘World’s first’ facility that converts waste plastic to aviation fuel opens
A “world-first” pilot facility has opened in the UK to convert hard-to-recycle plastic waste into sustainable aviation fuel, aiming to tackle both plastic pollution and aviation emissions. Operated by Clean Planet Technologies, the plant uses a multi-stage process to transform plastics into low-carbon jet fuel compatible with existing aircraft systems. While still at pilot scale, the project is positioned as a step toward scaling circular fuel production, with supporters highlighting its potential to cut lifecycle emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Read more here.
Low-cost method could standardize microplastic extraction from soils worldwide
Scientists have developed a low-cost method that could standardise how microplastics are extracted and measured in soils worldwide, addressing a major gap in environmental monitoring. The new framework identifies the most effective techniques based on factors such as recovery rates, cost and environmental impact, making it accessible for global use. Researchers say a consistent approach will improve understanding of contamination levels in agricultural soils, where microplastics pose risks to food security, soil health and human health.
Read more here.