The latest Global Plastics Treaty negotiations may have ended without an agreement, but here in California, we’re not waiting for the world to catch up.
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has proposed adding microplastics to its Candidate Chemicals List under the Safer Consumer Products Program.
The proposal doesn’t create an immediate need for action, but it does signal a major shift in how plastics may be regulated. For consumer brands, it’s a sign to get ahead now.
What does it mean for your brand? If the listing is finalized, DTSC would identify certain products that contain or release plastics as what they call “Priority Products.”
Companies that manufacture or sell these products in California would then be required to notify the agency, conduct an alternatives analysis to assess safer substitutes and lifecycle impacts, and take possible actions like reformulation, redesign, labeling, use restrictions and end-of-life management.
The proposal differs from typical chemical regulations because it targets an entire material category. That means broad categories like textiles, personal care products, packaging, cleaning supplies and more could be impacted.
Happy to say that at von Holzhausen, we’re already way ahead of these proposals.
Liquidplant® is the world’s first 100% plant-based, high-performance plastic alternative. As regulations are tightened, it represents a practical path forward for protecting supply chains, reducing regulatory risk, and positioning brands as leaders in sustainable innovation.
Ready to get ahead too? Reach out to our team.