REACH Revision Proposals, EPA Phthalate Risk Evaluation, CSCL Exemption Changes, Formaldehyde Risk, Microplastics and More!
Happy New Year!
Although proposed policy changes slowed over the holiday season, several impactful proposals have recently emerged from both industry organisations and regulators. AmCham has issued a white paper on the upcoming revision of REACH, offering sensible recommendations that could help shape the European Commission’s final proposal later in 2025.
Meanwhile, the EPA has released its draft risk assessment for DCHP—the first in a series of phthalates widely used across multiple industries. We can expect additional draft risk assessments for six other phthalates, followed by regulatory actions that could significantly affect businesses. Stay tuned for further updates as these developments unfold.
The background information related to this week’s policy updates span thousands of pages—far more than most organisations can manage on their own. Let Foresight’s AI-powered assistants help you monitor these developments and stay ahead of evolving requirements.
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?? Headlines at a Glance
?? The Headlines in Focus
?? Simplifying REACH: Boosting Competitiveness
AmCham EU has called on the European Commission to simplify REACH regulations to enhance EU competitiveness and reduce regulatory burdens. Key recommendations include adopting science-based decision-making, improving regulatory predictability with clearer pathways for substances of very high concern, and aligning REACH with other legislation to remove redundancies. AmCham also proposes digitising compliance processes and strengthening enforcement against unfair competition.
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?? DCHP Risks: EPA Calls for Action
The EPA’s draft risk evaluation for dicyclohexyl phthalate (DCHP) identifies significant risks to worker health, particularly in industrial settings. DCHP, a widely used plasticizer, has been linked to adverse reproductive effects and developmental toxicity. Public comments are open until 10 March 2025, with regulatory measures, such as restrictions and protective equipment requirements, expected to follow.
???? Japan Updates Chemical Exemptions
Japan is revising its CSCL chemical exemptions list to reflect updated safety data. New additions include low-risk polymer compounds, while substances with bioaccumulation or toxicity concerns, like certain perfluorinated acrylates, are being removed. The changes aim to reduce unnecessary industry burdens while prioritising environmental and human health. Public feedback is invited until 3 February 2025.
?? Formaldehyde Declared a Health Risk
The EPA’s final risk evaluation has declared formaldehyde a significant health hazard for workers and consumers. Commonly found in furniture, adhesives, and building materials, formaldehyde exposure is linked to respiratory issues, asthma, and cancer. The EPA plans to introduce measures such as product restrictions, mandatory PPE in workplaces, and consumer labelling requirements.
?? EU Targets Microplastic Pollution
The EU Council has adopted its position to tackle plastic pellet losses, a major source of microplastic pollution. The proposals include stricter handling practices, improved packaging standards, and new maritime transport regulations. The policy aims to cut pellet losses by up to 74% and supports the EU’s goal of reducing microplastic pollution by 30% by 2030. Negotiations with the European Parliament aims to finalise the framework this year.