Navigating Regulatory Scrutiny: How Ship & Shore Environmental Empowers Microplastics Producers with Proven Air Pollution Control Solutions

Navigating Regulatory Scrutiny: How Ship & Shore Environmental Empowers Microplastics Producers with Proven Air Pollution Control Solutions

by Anoosheh Oksouian, CEO of Ship & Shore Environmental, Inc.

As regulatory agencies intensify their focus on microplastics pollution, manufacturers across the plastics industry face unprecedented scrutiny and mounting compliance challenges. With California proposing to add microplastics to its Candidate Chemicals List, federal legislation advancing, and states implementing increasingly stringent requirements, plastic producers need proven partners to help navigate this complex regulatory landscape while maintaining operational efficiency.

Immediate Compliance Pressures

The regulatory environment surrounding plastic manufacturing has transformed dramatically in 2025. Federal and state lawmakers are advancing microplastics research and bans, signaling growing regulatory focus on health and environmental impacts, while California’s unprecedented proposal targets microplastics as a broad material category rather than a single compound.

Manufacturers now face potential penalties of up to $50,000 per violation per day under California Health and Safety Code § 25253.7 for Priority Product regulatory requirements. Once any product is listed as a Priority Product, manufacturers are required to submit a Priority Product Notification within 60 days of listing, followed by an Alternatives Analysis requiring implementation of regulatory responses such as reformulation, disclosure, use restrictions or product redesign.

VOC Emissions: The Critical Control Point

While the focus on microplastics pollution continues to grow, a parallel regulatory framework targets the air emissions generated during plastic production processes. VOC emissions from styrene, pentane, and other compounds used in plastic manufacturing represent a critical control point where companies can demonstrate environmental leadership and regulatory compliance.

EPA standards limit volatile organic compounds emissions from certain process sources in polymer manufacturing plants producing polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, and poly(ethylene terephthalate), as well as copolymers consisting of at least 50 percent weight of ethylene, propylene, or bis-(2-hydroxylethyl)-terephthalate, or at least 80 percent by weight of styrene.

Proactive Compliance Positioning

In the current regulatory environment, manufacturers who proactively implement comprehensive air pollution control systems demonstrate environmental leadership and position themselves favorably for future regulatory developments. Ship & Shore Environmental’s mission is to provide energy efficient, innovative, quality products and services that help customers meet the increasing demands of environmental regulations while enhancing productivity and profitability.

Taking Action in an Uncertain Environment

The current regulatory scrutiny facing microplastics producers demands strategic action. Ship & Shore Environmental stands ready to help manufacturers navigate these challenges with proven technology, comprehensive support, and the deep industry expertise that comes from over 25 years of serving the plastics industry.

Our custom-engineered solutions address immediate VOC compliance requirements while building the infrastructure needed to adapt to future regulatory developments. As the regulatory environment continues to evolve, manufacturers partnering with Ship & Shore gain the confidence that comes from working with the industry’s most experienced air pollution control specialists.

Don’t wait for regulatory requirements to force hasty compliance decisions. Contact Ship & Shore Environmental today to discuss how our proven solutions can help your facility navigate the current scrutiny while building sustainable competitive advantages for the future.

Anoosheh Oskouian is CEO of Ship & Shore Environmental, Inc. She spearheads innovative strategies to reduce industrial pollution and improve air quality globally. With a background in chemical engineering and a passion for sustainability, Anoosheh is dedicated to advancing green technologies and advocating for environmental stewardship. Learn more at www.shipandshore.com.