In a press release published on June 26, 2019, the European Council announced the adoption of conclusions offering “political guidance on the development of a sustainable EU chemicals policy strategy.” The conclusions specifically address and promote efforts regarding a range of topics including improving and mainstreaming chemical risk assessment across EU legislation, promoting green and sustainable chemistry and non-chemical alternatives, supporting small and medium-sized businesses in replacing substances of concern, developing an early warning system for taking action on emerging chemical risks, and developing an EU strategy for a non-toxic environment.
The Council also calls on the European Commission (EC) to develop an action plan by December 2019 to address registration dossier compliance within REACH and “to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment by minimizing exposure to endocrine disruptors.” The plan should contain an “unambiguous timeline” and “concrete measures.” Regarding nanomaterials, the conclusions request the EC “to collect and make available research data on the characterization [as well as] the hazard and potential exposure of nanoforms of substances that were so far not registered under REACH because their yearly tonnage is below the threshold of 1 tonne/year.”
Reference
European Council (June 26, 2019). “Towards a Sustainable Chemicals Policy Strategy of the Union – Council conclusions.” (pdf)
Read more
European Council (June 26, 2019). “Council conclusions on chemicals.”
HEAL (June 26, 2019). “Environment Council’s demand for more ambitious action on chemicals at start of new European term could lead to major health benefits.”
NIA (June 26, 2019). “Environment Council conclusions on nanomaterials.”
Ginger Hervey (June 26, 2019). “Environment ministers call for sustainable EU chemicals strategy.” Chemical Watch
Ginger Hervey (June 18, 2019). “Council of Ministers’ draft conclusions call for sustainable EU chemicals policy.” Chemical Watch
