As agriculture faces increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact, I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to rethink the materials we use in seed coating technologies. At Michelman, this transformation is well underway.
For decades, seed coatings have relied on synthetic polymers as binders. While effective for adhesion and protection, many of these materials contain microplastics that raise concerns about long-term soil health and environmental persistence. The new regulatory landscape in Europe has amplified the urgency for change. Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055, which came into force in October 2023, restricts the use of intentionally added synthetic polymer microparticles — commonly known as microplastics. The regulation provides a five-year transition period for seed treatment products and eight years for plant protection products, creating a clear timeline.
We didn’t wait for the clock to start. Michelman began transitioning early, developing microplastic-free coatings that maintain performance in adhesion, dust control, and abrasion resistance without relying on synthetic microparticles. These solutions demonstrate that it’s possible to meet agronomic needs while reducing environmental impact.
But compliance is only the first step. We’re focused on the next generation of biodegradable technologies, aligned with the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan and the Fertilizing Products Regulation (EU) 2019/1009. These frameworks set expectations for biodegradability in soil, encouraging the industry to innovate toward materials that break down more effectively.
Today, our work centers on optimizing the building blocks that not only meet regulatory requirements but also enhance seed coating performance. Building on our success with microplastic-free coatings, we’re advancing biodegradable candidates that are now undergoing refinement, testing, and preparation for broader validation. This is part of a larger sustainable technology roadmap.
Collaboration is central. We’re working with seed companies, regulatory bodies, and academic partners to ensure that every innovation is both scientifically robust and commercially viable. These partnerships allow us to accelerate development, validate performance, and ensure farmers receive solutions that work in the field.
The EU’s regulatory timeline has, in many ways, been a catalyst for innovation. It has challenged the industry to rethink materials and prioritize long-term sustainability. We see this as an opportunity not just to respond, but to lead.
This is more than regulatory compliance — it’s part of our responsibility as stewards of innovation and the environment. By planting the seeds of sustainable technologies today, we’re helping agriculture transition to a more environmentally responsible future.
