The International Geosynthetics Society (IGS) has called on the European Commission (EC) to fully understand the enormous sustainability benefits of geosynthetics when considering how to reduce microplastics in the environment. Geosynthetics are part of the solution. US’ IGS has submitted its response to the Commission’s public consultation on microplastics.

It calls on the Commission to ensure that this important issue is addressed using the best available scientific data and case studies. The IGS also calls on the Commission to fully consider the entire lifecycle benefits of all products that use synthetic materials in their manufacture. It is inappropriate to compare single-use consumer plastics, which decompose rapidly and are often disposed of irresponsibly, with high-quality durable engineering products that deliver long-lasting benefits to entire communities, according to a press release by IGS.

Geosynthetics present a negligible environmental risk, and where risk exists at all, it is a rare occurrence within the highly regulated disciplines of civil and environmental engineering. Potential examples such as the use of incorrectly specified products or misguided installation and maintenance practices are addressed through high technical and professional standards in the industry.

“The IGS welcomes the Commission’ consultation. It is an important opportunity to clarify the main sources of microplastics. Using science-based evidence, we look forward to working with the Commission to identify effective measures to reduce microplastics leakage into the environment,” Nathalie Touze, IGS vice president, said in a statement.

“Geosynthetics deliver enormous benefits. Geosynthetics reduce freshwater losses from irrigation canals in water-stressed regions and play a critical role in water and wastewater treatment plants. Compared to other construction materials, geosynthetics’ carbon footprint is typically 65 per cent lower. They protect lives and livelihoods by reinforcing slopes and underpinning vital infrastructure. Geosynthetics offer a durable, reliable and resource-light means to protect vulnerable coastal zones from erosion. They also help to contain millions of tonnes of plastics stored in landfill every year,” Preston Kendall, co-chair IGS sustainability committee, said.

“Independent data show that most plastic waste entering the environment is a result of poor waste management. The Commission’s own figures estimate that vehicle tyres and road markings (55 per cent), pellets (28 per cent) and clothing textiles (8 per cent) account for the majority of microplastics in marine environments. Single use consumer plastics such as carrier bags and plastic bottles also contribute.  In contrast to many consumer plastics, geosynthetics do not normally degrade and can be fully recovered and recycled at end of life,” Francesco Fontana, chair of IGS corporate committee, said.