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This is Signal by Foresight, the weekly chemical regulation newsletter dedicated to giving you everything you need to know in a 5-minute read or less. You are receiving this email because you registered for a recent webinar.
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🔍 The Headlines in Focus
💄 EU Guidance on Synthetic Polymer Microparticles in Cosmetics
The European Federation for Cosmetic Ingredients (EFfCI) and Cosmetics Europe (CE) have released guidance on the REACH Annex XVII Restriction on Synthetic Polymer Microparticles (SPM). The document defines SPMs, details compliance requirements, and provides timelines for various applications. It includes assessment templates, test methods, and labelling obligations to help companies navigate the new regulation and reduce microplastic pollution in cosmetics.
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🧪 ECHA Releases Report on Complex Inorganics from Non-Metallurgy
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has published an assessment of regulatory needs for complex inorganics from non-metallurgy processes. Covering substances like ashes, ceramics, and pigments, the report identifies hazards such as carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity. Key actions include generating data through compliance checks and considering regulatory risk management for high-hazard substances. The report aims to help industries anticipate regulatory changes and ensure safer chemical management.
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🌾 EPA Proposes New Measures for Atrazine Contamination
The EPA has proposed new measures to mitigate atrazine contamination in U.S. watersheds, addressing concerns about its environmental and health impacts. Atrazine, widely used in agriculture, has been found at harmful levels in certain areas. Proposed strategies include watershed management plans, promoting best agricultural practices, and enhanced monitoring. Public comments are invited until 1 August 2024, as the EPA seeks to protect both ecosystems and human health from atrazine’s adverse effects.
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🍏 GB Proposes Lower Methidathion Residue Levels
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has proposed amendments to the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for methidathion in Great Britain, lowering them to the limit of quantification. Methidathion, once used in plant protection, poses potential health risks. The changes aim to align with international standards and ensure food safety. Public comments are open until 1 September 2024, with new MRLs expected to be enforced six months post-adoption.
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⚖️ EU Implements Stricter Mercury Regulations
The EU has enacted new regulations on mercury use, significantly restricting dental amalgam and mercury-added lamps. Starting 1 January 2025, dental amalgam use will be largely prohibited, with some member states granted extensions until mid-2026. By the end of 2026, most mercury-added lamps will also be banned. These measures align with the Minamata Convention to reduce mercury emissions and protect health and the environment. The EU aims for a cleaner future with mercury-free alternatives.
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🛡️ European Commission Updates REACH Restrictions Roadmap
The European Commission has released an updated Restrictions Roadmap under REACH, focusing on enhancing health and environmental safety across the EU. The roadmap categorizes substances by their regulatory status, outlining potential restrictions and ongoing assessments. Key substances under scrutiny include formaldehyde, lead, PVC, bisphenols, and various flame retardants. This update is part of the EU’s Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, aiming to proactively manage hazardous substances for improved protection.
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🌿 EPA Seeks Input on New Framework for Pesticide Resistance
The EPA has introduced a new framework to address antibacterial and antifungal resistance linked to pesticide use. The initiative, developed in collaboration with federal agencies, aims to balance agricultural benefits with public health risks. The framework, under FIFRA authority, encourages public comments by 1 August 2024. It seeks to enhance interagency communication and ensure comprehensive evaluations of pesticides’ impact on resistance in human and animal pathogens.
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🌱 GB Approves New Herbicidal Substance Bixlozone
The HSE has approved Bixlozone, a new herbicidal active substance, for use in Great Britain. Submitted by FMC Corporation, Bixlozone is effective against broadleaf and grass weeds in crops like cereals and maize. The extensive evaluation confirmed that Bixlozone meets regulatory standards for safety and environmental impact, allowing its inclusion in plant protection products.
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🔍 GB MCL List Update: 88 Substances Aligned with EU Standards
The HSE has updated the GB Mandatory Classification and Labelling (MCL) list, affecting 88 chemical substances to align with the 14th and 15th EU Adaptations to Technical Progress (ATPs). Published on 26 June 2024, the update includes legally binding entries and compliance requirements. While most substances remain unchanged, titanium dioxide and granulated copper are under further assessment, requiring temporary self-classification by dutyholders.
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