Leaked draft version developed by DG Environment and commented on by DG Grow; proposed mixture assessment factor not supported by DG Grow, overall wording requested to be ‘less definitive and committing’; NGOs concerned revisions could place public health behind corporate interests
FCMs, gut health and risk assessment
New scientific article reviews food contact chemicals’ effects on gut permeability, microbiota, and immune responses; scientific justification for risk assessment assumptions questioned
Danish environment minister comments on EDC criteria
Esben Lunde Larsen appreciates effort, but criticizes outcome of EC’s criteria on endocrine disrupting chemicals; proposes two category approach identifying confirmed and suspected EDCs
Global definition of plastics’ recyclability
Plastics recycling groups propose global definition for recyclability of plastic packaging, suggest technical recyclability, accessible and efficient recycling program, market demand for recycled materials as criteria to be fulfilled
EDC scientists respond to industry assertions
Scientists reject incorrect and misleading statements made by chemical industry in controversy on WHO/UNEP Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals 2012 report
ENVI adopts EU bans on single-use plastics
EU Parliament’s Environment and Public Health Committee adopts draft EU directive on polluting single-use plastics and marine litter; European Parliament (EP) publishes key facts about plastic in the oceans, informs about the impact of litter and actions for reduction
Formaldehyde confirmed to cause cancer
National Academy of Sciences issues second review on formaldehyde’s carcinogenicity
“Plastic Health” web channel launched
Plastic Soup Foundation launches “Plastic Health” web series discussing latest scientific evidence; announces publication of expert opinions, interviews on hazards of microplastics, nanoplastics, and additives
Disagreement over ECHA's SVHC database
Opposing positions taken by industry, NGOs, scientific expert with regard to ECHA’s planned database on SVHCs in products
French NGOs demand action on nanomaterials
Eight French NGOs send open letter to country’s prime minister calling for labeling and restriction of nanomaterials in consumer products