Scientists for Scientific European Commission Regulation publish opinion on the European Commission’s criteria for endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs); call for potency to be an aspect of regulatory EDC identification in line with industry views but not supported by the Endocrine Society
Retailer removes unwanted chemicals from consumer products
U.S. retailer Target adopts new chemical strategy and policy, aims for full ingredient transparency; goal is to remove phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde, and nonylphenol ethoxylates from various products
Global Food Contact 2020 virtual conference
The 2020 edition of the Global Food Contact conference organized by Smithers will take place entirely online, be spread across four half-day sessions on July 14, 15, 21, and 23
RIVM: SVHCs can hamper recycling
Dutch institute for public health and environment addresses substances of very high concern in waste streams, makes recommendations for safe recycling in the circular economy
Market report forecasts food packaging growth through 2025
Report by research firm Markets and Markets focuses on “eco-friendly food packaging”; expects paper and paperboard packaging to post significant growth through 2025 with Asia-Pacific region to see largest increase; growth catalyzed by stringent regulations and shift in consumer preferences
2014 French nanomaterial registrations analyzed
French Directorate General of Risk Prevention releases report analyzing data on nanomaterials imported, manufactured or distributed in France in 2014
GAIA: chemical recycling a distraction not solution
Alliance of non-governmental organizations Global Initiative for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) publishes technical report and research briefing on chemical recycling technologies for plastic waste; identifies limitations related to environmental emissions, carbon footprint, scale-up, economic viability; argues chemical recycling does not fit within circular economy
Controversy over TTIP
Greenpeace leaks TTIP negotiation documents implying risks for environment and public health; EU Commissioner for trade asserts that trade deal will not lower EU standards
Fresenius Conference on EDCs
Fresenius Academy holds 7th International Conference on EDCs; UK regulatory representative and pesticide industry call for inclusion of ‘potency perspective’ in EDC identification criteria; most other country representatives and NGOs in favor of hazard-based identification
Scientific consensus statement on food contact chemicals and human health
Group of 33 international scientists publish peer-reviewed statement identifying seven specific areas for improvement, urge decision makers to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals present in food packaging and other contact food contact materials