Recorded presentation

Robert H. Donkers, Transport, Energy and Environment, Delegation of the European Commission to the United States, 2300 M Street NW Suite #300, Washington, DC 20037, 202-862-9577, robert.donkers@cec.eu.int

This presentation is part of a panel on Reform of Toxic Chemicals Regulation.

On October 29 2003, the European Commission presented a proposal for a new regulatory framework for chemicals. Under the new system called REACH (Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of CHemicals), manufacturers or importers of more than one metric ton of a chemical substance per year need to register it in a central database.

The present system distinguishes between "existing" (marketed in September 1981), and "new” substances (marketed since). There is a general lack of knowledge about the properties and uses of existing substances. The risk assessment process is slow and resource-intensive. Authorities are responsible instead of the producers, importers or users. As a result only a limited number of risk assessments have been completed. Risk management measures can only be taken after authorities have proven that a substance may present a serious risk.

REACH aims to protect human health and environment while maintaining the competitiveness of the European industry and enhancing innovation. It gives greater responsibility to industry to manage risks and to provide safety information to be passed down the production chain.

REACH was drafted in close consultation with interested parties worldwide, including via an Internet consultation. This allowed the Commission to propose a streamlined and cost-effective system. It will now be discussed in the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers for adoption under the so-called co-decision procedure.

Learning Objectives:

• At the end of this session, the participant will know the key elements of the new EU proposal for regulation of toxic chemicals.

Keywords: Risk Assessment, Risk Communication

Related Web page: europa.eu.int/comm/environment/chemicals/whitepaper.htm

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am a government official working for the European Commission. My paper deals with one of the recent key proposals by my employer.

Recorded presentation