16/12/2025 (Agence Europe) – On Tuesday 16 December, the European Commission announced the entry into force of two new pieces of legislation aimed at improving soil health and reducing pollution by microplastics. Directive 2025/2360 on soil monitoring and resilience aims to improve soil health, which is essential for agricultural productivity, plant resistance to pests and the nutritional quality of food. Currently, 60-70% of Europe’s soil is considered to be degraded, costing the EU over €50 billion a year. Regulation 2025/2365, on the prevention of losses of plastic granules in order to reduce pollution by microplastics, applies to all operators handling five tonnes or more of granules per year and requires measures to prevent, contain and clean up any losses or leaks. Large companies must obtain a certificate of compliance, while simplified obligations apply to smaller structures. (LC)