Green groups claim that delays in implementing the European Union's largest-ever ban on toxic chemicals have resulted in nearly 100,000 tonnes of extra chemical pollution from just six of the hazardous substance groups. The European Commission is described as the 'chief roadblock' to its own plans, according to a report by ClientEarth and the European Environmental Bureau.
Four Years of Stalled Progress
The European Commission's 'restrictions roadmap,' announced in April 2022, aimed to push broad categories of dangerous substances off the market. However, four years later, the process has failed to start regulating seven of the 22 hazardous chemical groups and has 'effectively frozen' progress on seven more. Green groups allege 'unlawful delays' have led to significant additional pollution.
Key Substances Affected
The delayed restrictions include lead in bullets, linked to chronic kidney disease in hunters; substances in childcare articles associated with cancer and genetic mutations; calcium cyanamide, a fertiliser that spreads carcinogens; and a bioaccumulating flame retardant used in cars. Lead in ammunition and fishing tackle accounts for the bulk of the 98,000 tonnes of pollution attributed to delays, with the European Chemicals Agency estimating about 44,000 tonnes of lead released annually from these sources.
Commission's Failure to Meet Deadlines
Under EU chemical regulations known as Reach, the Commission must draft an amendment to the restriction list within three months of receiving expert committee opinions. The report found that this deadline has never been met, with delays ranging from 13 to 47 months and averaging two years. Hélène Duguy, a lawyer at ClientEarth and co-author of the report, described the situation as 'really not looking good.'
Some Successes Amid Delays
Some restrictions have successfully entered into force, including PFAS in firefighting foam, lead in PVC plastics, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons used in clay pigeon shooting. However, the overall progress remains poor. Mirella Miettinen, a chemical regulation researcher at the University of Eastern Finland, called the lack of political will 'extremely frustrating.' The Commission did not respond to a request for comment.
