ECHA Launches Public Consultation on Alternatives for Two Active Substances
On September 6, 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) initiated a public consultation to identify alternatives for the substances 3-iodo-2-propynylbutylcarbamate and 5-[1-(2,3-dimethylphenyl)ethyl]-1H-imidazole, designated as Candidates for Substitution (CfS). The consultation will conclude on November 6, 2024. See the table below for details.
Active Substance Substitution and Approval Process under BPR
Under the European Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR), active substances undergo a strict approval process. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) identifies safer alternatives as Candidates for Substitution (CfS) and seeks public input before recommending approvals.
Substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic for reproduction, or exhibit persistent and bioaccumulative traits are usually not approved, except in special cases where no alternatives exist and they are essential for health or environmental protection.
Approvals for such exceptions are strictly limited, often to five years, and come with usage restrictions. Member states must ensure all conditions are met before allowing the use of these biocidal products.
ECHA Opens Public Consultation on CLH of One Chemical Substance
On September 11, 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched a public consultation on a proposal for the harmonized classification and labeling of a chemical substance.
The CLH process aims to ensure consistent and transparent hazard information across Europe. It includes evaluating chemical hazards, proposing classifications and labels, seeking public input, and concluding with a review by ECHA’s Risk Assessment Committee (RAC), which will deliver its verdict.