US Chemicals body slams REACH legislation as “Unworkable”

Arlington, Virginia - The American Chemistry Council says the REACH legislation, passed yesterday by the European Parliament, is unworkable, adding that it will stifle trade.

In a statement, the president and CEO of the ACC said, "The European Parliament has unfortunately failed to produce workable chemical legislation. The compromise package approved by the Parliament has not addressed many of the key concerns repeatedly expressed by industry and major EU trading partners. A more focused and flexible approach to registration, and a truly risk-based approach to authorisation, could have brought our economies and regulatory systems closer together. Strong and effective chemical regulation should not have to come at the expense of global trade and competitiveness."

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) claims to represent the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry.

CEFIC, by contrast, which represents the companies most directly affected by the legislation, has committed to making the legislation work effectively.

The legislation wil pass to the EU Council of Ministers for final approval on 18 December 2006 in what will be a formal rubber-stamping exercise.

This is an external link and should open in a new window. If the window does not appear, please check your pop-up blocking software. ERJ is not responsible for the content of external sites.

Press release from ACC

Download Statement on REACH rom CEFIC

REACH chemicals law adopted amid final controversy EurActiv (Brussels)

Champagne corks fly as EU gives birth to chemicals law EU Observer (Brussels)