The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has presented a draft of its Community Roll-Up Action Plan (CoRAP) for the period 2025-2027, which provides for the evaluation of eight priority chemicals in 2025.
This step, aligned with the regulatory framework of the REACH Regulation, reinforces the European Union's efforts to protect human health and the environment from potential risks associated with chemicals.
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What does this new plan entail?
The evaluation of chemical substances is an essential component of the REACH Regulation, the regulatory framework that governs the production and use of chemicals in Europe.
According to the draft plan, the eight selected substances will be subject to detailed scrutiny, aimed at determining whether they pose significant risks. This assessment is based on key criteria, such as:
Persistence in the environment : The ability of substances to remain intact in ecosystems for long periods.
Bioaccumulation : Its tendency to accumulate in living organisms.
Toxicity : Identified negative impacts on human health or ecosystems.
The main objective is to collect additional data and, if necessary, recommend restrictions or prohibitions to ensure an adequate level of protection.
ECHA: Which Substances Will Be Evaluated and Why?
The eight substances selected have been identified for their worrying characteristics, such as their carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic for reproduction (CMR) potential or their ability to persist and bioaccumulate in the environment.
Some even show signs of being endocrine disruptors. These are the substances that will be evaluated and the reasons behind their inclusion:
2-hydroxypropyl acrylate
Suspected of causing cancer and sensitization. Widespread dispersive use and significant occupational exposure. Evaluated by France.
Oligomerization products of beta-pinene
Potential PBT/vPvB (persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic) properties. Consumer use and potential environmental impact. Assessed by Spain.
Oligomerization products of alpha-pinene and beta-pinene
Similar PBT/vPvB concerns and wide dispersive use. Also assessed by Spain.
Tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate
Considered a potential endocrine disruptor with significant environmental and occupational risks. Evaluated by France.
Triethyl phosphate
It poses CMR risks and possible endocrine disruption, as well as a high tonnage of use. Evaluated by France.
[3-(2,3-epoxypropoxy)propyl]dimethoxymethylsilane
With possible mutagenic effects. Evaluated by Italy.
[3-(2,3-epoxypropoxy)propyl]diethoxymethylsilane
Similar to the previous substance, with concern for mutagenicity. Also evaluated by Italy.
Potassium dicyanoargentate
Associated with reproductive toxicity and suspected endocrine disruption. Evaluated by the Netherlands.
ECHA: The Evaluation Process
These substances will be subject to a thorough review by the responsible Member States, who will analyse additional data to assess the potential risks. This analysis will make it possible to determine whether further regulatory measures are needed, such as restrictions or their classification as substances of very high concern (SVHC).
The process not only focuses on gathering sound scientific information, but also considers the impact on industry and consumers.
Companies that use these substances in their supply chain could face restrictions that would require significant adjustments, from the replacement of components to innovation in production processes.
ECHA: Implications for Industry and Society
The assessment of these substances has the potential to impact a range of industries, including chemicals, polymer and adhesive manufacturing, and other sectors dependent on advanced chemicals. Affected companies will need to adapt quickly to comply with the new regulations , while consumers could benefit from greater safety assurances for everyday products.
Furthermore, this action reinforces the European Union's commitment to the European Green Deal and its objective of moving towards a sustainable and pollution-free economy.
ECHA: A Continuing Commitment to Chemical Safety
The publication of this draft underlines the importance of rigorous, evidence-based regulation to protect people and the environment.
Collaboration between ECHA, Member States and industry will be crucial to address challenges that may arise during the evaluation process.
With this measure, Europe takes a further step towards a safer chemical future, promoting responsible innovation and sustainability at all levels of society.
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