Press release from the Department of Toxic Substances Control:
DTSC’s Safer Consumer Products Program adopted a regulation adding microplastics to the Candidate Chemicals List, an important step toward reducing Californians’ exposure to these persistent and highly mobile particles. Following this listing, DTSC will further evaluate consumer products containing microplastics and consider future regulatory actions where warranted.
Microplastics have become pervasive in all ecosystems and are found in dust, indoor air, drinking water, and food supplies. Microplastics have been detected in the human body, including in the placenta and cardiac tissue. Their environmental persistence, mobility, and potential for adverse impacts underscore the importance of this action.
“Adding microplastics to the Candidate Chemicals List is a critical step in DTSC’s evaluation of products that contribute to microplastic pollution,” said DTSC Director Katherine Butler. “This action reflects California’s commitment to addressing widespread environmental contaminants through a rigorous, science-based approach.”
This rulemaking does not impose new obligations on manufacturers or retailers. Regulatory requirements may only result if DTSC identifies and lists a Priority Product following a separate rulemaking process.
Additional background information, including the scientific basis for this action, can be found in DTSC’s June 2025 Microplastics Technical Document and on DTSC’s website.
