The European Union is engaged in reviews and updates of several significant regulatory measures, under the auspices of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

European Commission Working on EU Chemicals Strategy: The European Commission is working on a new Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability and is expected to adopt a final document in October 2020. The effort aims to reduce risks associated with producing and using chemicals; simplify and strengthen European Union rules on chemicals; and work toward a process in which substances are only reviewed by one agency. For more information and to sign up for notifications, visit this EC web page. IPC Contact: Alison James.

Delaying of SCIP Deadline Unlikely, According to Commission: Following calls from several European trade associations, the European Commission confirmed that companies should continue their preparations to comply with the January 2021 deadline to submit notifications to the Substances of Concern in Products (SCIP) database. The commission also reminded companies that the obligation to submit information is set in the revised Waste Framework Directive, and the date can’t be modified by them. IPC will continue to follow up on previous advocacy regarding the possible impact of new reporting obligations. IPC Contact: Alison James.

Four New Substances Added to the SVHC Candidate List: In June 2020, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) added four new substances to the Candidate List of substances of very high concern (SVHC). Substances on the candidate list may be placed on the Authorization List in the future, which means companies would need to apply for permission to continue using them. One substance in particular, 2-methylimidazole (CAS number 693-98-1), is used in electronics manufacturing as a hardener for epoxy resin systems for semiconductor potting compounds and soldering masks and as a component of numerous polymers including epoxy resin pastes. Beginning in January 2021, companies will also need to notify the ECHA’s upcoming Substances of Concern in Products (SCIP) database if they have products containing SVHCs. IPC urges companies to check their legal obligations relating to the safe use of their substances. IPC Contact: Alison James.

Chemical Regulation Spurs Substitution of SVHCs, ECHA Says: A report from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) says the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) directive has been the most powerful force pushing companies to replace harmful chemicals with safer alternatives. Customer demand, corporate sustainability policies, and corporate image have also had a notable impact on companies’ substitution efforts. However, companies face many challenges in such efforts, especially those of a “technical nature.” To overcome these barriers and facilitate the substitution process, the ECHA suggests trade associations and regulators establish collaborative networks across supply chains and organize events where companies can share experiences and best practices. IPC Contact: Alison James.