
ECHA's 2024-2028 Strategy: Tackling Key Regulatory Challenges in Chemical Safety
This strategy aims to advance chemical safety through science, collaboration, and knowledge, emphasising the protection of human health and the environment.


The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has expanded its Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) by adding five new hazardous chemicals as of 21 January 2025. This update, which now includes 247 entries, affects EU and EEA suppliers who must comply with new regulatory obligations to ensure safe use and communication of these substances.
This substance's entry was updated to reflect its classification as an endocrine disruptor for the environment. The classification now explicitly states its intrinsic properties and also accounts for cases where it contains ≥ 0.1% w/w of 4-nonylphenol, branched and linear (4-NP). Uses include polymers, adhesives, sealants, and coatings.
Suppliers must provide sufficient information to professional customers on articles containing Candidate List substances above 0.1% w/w to ensure their safe use. This information must be included in the supply chain.
Suppliers of Candidate List substances or mixtures containing such substances must provide an updated safety data sheet.
For mixtures not classified as hazardous but containing Candidate List substances at ≥ 0.1% w/w (non-gaseous) or ≥ 0.2% v/v (gaseous), SDS must be provided upon request.
Producers and importers must notify ECHA if their articles contain Candidate List substances exceeding 0.1% w/w and one tonne per year. Notification is required within six months of inclusion in the Candidate List.
Professional users are required to apply risk management measures recommended in supplier communications to minimise emissions and exposure.
Upon request, suppliers must inform consumers whether their articles contain Candidate List substances above 0.1% w/w. This information, including safe-use guidelines, must be provided free of charge within 45 days.
Products containing Candidate List substances are not eligible for EU Ecolabel certification, restricting their marketability to eco-conscious consumers.
The inclusion of these substances in the Candidate List has significant implications for various industries. Companies using these chemicals must implement risk management measures to minimise exposure and emissions, aligning with REACH regulations.
Substances on the Candidate List may eventually be placed on the Authorisation List, necessitating companies to apply for permission to continue their use. This potential shift highlights the need for industries to explore safer alternatives and innovate in chemical usage to maintain compliance and sustainability.
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This strategy aims to advance chemical safety through science, collaboration, and knowledge, emphasising the protection of human health and the environment.

A significant 81% of participants recognised the presence of "free riders" who avoid compliance duties.

ECHA CHEM features information from all the over 100,000 REACH registrations submitted by companies.
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