EPA Moves PFAS Reporting Deadline, Industry Warns of PFAS Restriction, Eggshell Powder Rejected for PPP and More.
The EU Court of Justice's ruling on 5 September 2024 delivers a crucial reminder about the need for businesses to provide accurate enterprise size declarations when seeking fee reductions under REACH. In this case, Hallertauer Hopfenveredelungsges. m.b.H. and B. GmbH failed to submit the necessary documentation to prove their SME status within the required time frame.
As a result, ECHA demanded the full registration fee along with administrative charges, which the companies did not pay, prompting legal action. Notably, the Court clarified that although ECHA has the authority to impose fees, it cannot enforce their payment through EU courts. Instead, under the REACH regulation, enforcement must be sought via national courts.
The ruling also reaffirmed that ECHA retains the right to recover unpaid fees and charges through legal action within the respective national jurisdictions.
—?Steven
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?? The Headlines in Focus
?? EPA Postpones PFAS Reporting Due to Software Delays
The EPA has delayed the reporting deadline for PFAS data under TSCA from November 2024 to July 2025, citing software development constraints. The rule mandates manufacturers report PFAS-related data, aiming to support the EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap. The extension allows entities more time to comply, with small businesses receiving additional time until 2026.
?? Industry Warns of Economic Fallout from PFAS Restrictions
German industrial associations have called for a revised approach to PFAS restrictions under REACH, warning of severe economic disruptions. They seek a risk-based regulatory framework, arguing the current proposal threatens high-tech industries by targeting essential fluoropolymers. They urge a summit and revision of the restriction process to avoid technological setbacks.
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? EU Rejects Eggshell Powder for Plant Protection
The European Commission has denied approval for eggshell powder as a plant protection product due to health and environmental risks, including neurodevelopmental concerns. Although used in other contexts, it did not meet EU safety standards for plant protection. The decision leaves room for future resubmissions with improved specifications.
??? Stricter Regulations Proposed for Silicon Compounds
ECHA is proposing stricter regulations on silicon compounds like Silicon Dioxide (SiO?) due to health risks, particularly for workers exposed to crystalline silica dust. The proposal could affect multiple industries, from construction to cosmetics, as companies may face new occupational exposure limits and product restrictions.
?? ECHA Opens Public Consultation on 3,4-DMP Toxicity
ECHA has launched a public consultation on 3,4-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole (3,4-DMP), focusing on reproductive toxicity. The consultation, open until 25 September 2024, will inform its harmonised classification, which may include more stringent hazard categories like carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity.