Substitution of hazardous substances:
What's really wrong

A Swedish study shows that the substitution of hazardous chemicals is slower than expected. In their analysis, which they published in the journal Environmental Sciences Europe, the authors compared criteria and processes that are decisive for the selection of a substitution candidate - for pesticides, biocides and industrial chemicals.

Differences in the valuation process

They came to the following conclusion: the criteria used to identify the candidates are in fact almost identical for pesticides, biocides and industrial chemicals. However, there are differences in the evaluation process. While all pesticides and biocides are systematically evaluated in the course of the authorization procedure using the defined substitution criteria, the procedure for industrial chemicals is limited from the outset to substances that have been classified as substances of very high concern. This means that nine out of ten REACH substances are not included in the evaluation. Often because there is a lack of data that makes a clear classification impossible.

The authors have therefore identified this lack of reliable hazard and exposure data as the main problem. This also makes it difficult to identify possible alternative substances as safe, meaning that critical substances generally remain on the market longer than planned.

The authors therefore conclude that REACH substances must be checked for their properties of very high concern at the registration stage.

Background

The aim of the EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) published in October 2020 is a pollutant-free environment. Hazardous substances are therefore to be gradually replaced by less hazardous alternatives.

Ensure the safety of your products in good time and contact us at sales@kft.de.