Webinar on micro- and nanoplastics

Background

Micro- and nanoplastics have emerged as an issue of increasing concern for citizens, policymakers and the scientific community. In response to a request from the European Parliament, EFSA is currently preparing a scientific opinion on the potential human health risks of micro- and nanoplastics in food, water and air. The assessment will review current evidence on exposure pathways, health effects, analytical methodologies and risk assessment approaches, while identifying key uncertainties and research needs. The work aims to provide independent scientific advice to support future European policy and risk management decision.

Objectives of the meeting

This webinar will be an opportunity to learn more about the scope of the mandate, the scientific questions being addressed, the work carried out so far, and the planned next steps. The session aims to foster a common understanding of the mandate, discuss current challenges and uncertainties, and provide information on future opportunities for engagement.

Structure of the meeting

• Welcome & introduction
• Background and objectives of the webinar

EFSA's mandate on micro- and nanoplastics

• Terms of reference of the scientific mandate
• Key scientific questions and expected outcomes

Progress to Date

• Activities conducted so far
• Scientific and methodological challenges
• Contribution of experts and networks

Next Steps

• Planned work towards the scientific opinion
• Future engagement opportunities
• Timeline

Q&A

Closing Remarks

Note: Questions will be collected during the registration process and will be used to inform the presentations and address participants' key areas of interest throughout the webinar.

Who should attend?

The meeting is intended for all interested stakeholders with expertise in the area of micro- and nanoplastics, as well as representatives of national authorities, research organisations, industry, consumer groups and civil society with an interest in micro- and nanoplastics.

On-line registration

The registration form can be found at: https://events.efsa.europa.eu/event/ar/1128/webinar-on-micro-and-nanoplastics-2026

Please note that registration may close once the maximum number of participants is reached or, at the latest, by 14 October 2026 at 12.00 CEST.

After registration submission, your participation will be automatically confirmed.

You will receive the link to attend the webinar after closure of registration, few days before the event.

Organisational details

The event will be held online on 20 October 2026 from 10:00 to 12:00 CEST. Further details will be communicated to selected participants. English will be the language of the event, and no translation will be provided.

Unauthorised recording, transmission or transcription of the event, including through the use of Artificial Intelligence tools, is not permitted. Participants are also expected to refrain from any conduct that may disrupt the proper running of the event, including the use of AI-generated or other content in a manner that interferes with the proceedings. Where such situations arise, the chairperson or organisers may take appropriate measures, such as restricting access to certain functionalities, or removing the participant from the event.

Contact

Do not hesitate to contact the organising committee at webinars [at] efsa.europa.eu for more information.