Was the Chemical Strategy for Sustainability a success? As we celebrate its one-year anniversary today, on the 14th of October, it is far too early to say. We can however conclude that the strategy and the policies it proposes are still important and needed, and that it has given the chemical issues an appropriate level of attention amongst policy makers.
EU puts 200 PFAS out of business – but thousands remain
This is the first time the EU has imposed a ban on several chemicals of similar structure and properties all at once, which hopefully paves the way for more group bans.
Webinar: When is it justified to use hazardous chemicals?
The Chemical Strategy acknowledges the urgency to speed up the phaseout of hazardous chemicals, and one important step in that direction is to allow the most harmful chemicals only for “essential use”. Here’s a chance for you to learn more about the concept and how it may be applied.
Why resorcinol is the Terminator of hazardous chemicals – and should be shut down permanently
Some chemicals come back over and over again, not unlike Arnold Schwarzenegger’s character “Terminator”. One of those chemicals is resorcinol, an endocrine disruptor which we added to the SIN List back in 2011.
This is how the Restriction Roadmap can help speed up the journey towards our non-toxic destination
The aims of the Chemical Strategy to phase out ALL substances of very high concern from all consumer products gave us that “wow” feeling. Now it’s up to the European Commission to put words into action and start delivering on that sentiment, using the tools we already have.
ECHA’s 5-year review paints dark picture – but there is hope
The European Chemical Agency recently published their five-year review, presenting a disturbing reality. It is obvious that the chemicals legislation is in dire need of better enforcement.
EU measures to tackle hazardous chemicals build on incorrect data
EU authorities recently reported that the production and use of hazardous chemicals in everyday products have been reduced by 97 percent in the EU. However, the official registry for chemical volumes doesn’t show any reduction at all.
Experts agree that the data in the registry is off. The problem is that important regulatory actions designed to protect EU citizens from hazardous chemicals are based on this incorrect data.
PRESS RELEASE: EU court closes door to unjustified use of dangerous chemicals
The European Court of Justice confirmed today that the EU illegally allowed dangerous substances for sale in paints when there were safer options – setting a precedent that tightens the screw on companies’ use of toxic chemicals in the EU.
How to reduce animal testing without compromising chemical safety
it’s crucial to investigate the properties of chemicals designed for widespread societal use – preferably before they are put on market. However, we are convinced that much more can be done to further reduce animal testing.
Put the Chemical Strategy to work and the toxic 38 to rest
The consequence of the Commission’s inaction is not only continuous use of and exposure to hazardous chemicals, but also the loss of business opportunities for safer alternatives.