“This proposal would curtail the potentially devastating impact of micro-beads on the environment.” - State Linda Holmes (D-Aurora)

SPRINGFIELD – Micro-beads, small, plastic spheres in personal care products, can cause serious environmental damage according to recent studies. 

A measure co-sponsored by State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora), chair of the Senate Environment Committee, seeks to ban micro-beads in Illinois and reduce their environmental impact.

“Products with micro-beads can cause serious harm to fish and other wildlife,” Holmes said.  “This proposal would curtail the potentially devastating impact of micro-beads on the environment.”

Scientific evidence suggests that micro-beads are small enough to end up in lakes and rivers, where they can potentially absorb toxins and be eaten by fish. Micro-beads numbering 450,000 per square kilometer were discovered by scientists in the Great Lakes in 2012.

The legislation would prohibit the manufacture of products with micro-beads starting December 31, 2017. The proposal also stipulates that businesses cannot sell products with micro-beads purchased after December 31, 2018.  It establishes a fine for businesses that fail to comply.

The plan is the result of a compromise between the Illinois Environmental Council, the Chemical Industry Council of Illinois and Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.

The measure passed the Senate with unanimous support and now moves to the House for further consideration.