Within the European Union several legislative initiatives have been taken to limit the use of hazardous chemicals. Since 2007 the broad and horizontal REACH regulation gives a framework for regulating and restricting the use of the most hazardous substances.
The use of chemicals is also regulated in sector specific product directives which restricts the use of hazardous chemicals in for example toys, cosmetics and electronic products.
REACH entered into force in June 2007 replacing about 40 previous directives. REACH is comprehensive and complex and aims to take an integrated approach regulating the production, import and use of chemicals in Europe. REACH aims to place the burden of proof on industry, which has to collect or generate the data necessary to ensure the safe use of chemicals.
ChemSec's currently main focus within the EU legislative context is the implementation of REACH. We work mainly through the SIN List project which is aiming at identifying the most hazardous substances (Substances of Very High Concern), but also through SubsPort which strive to assist in the process of substituting such substances.
