For Bureau REACH, 2023 was a year of renewal and unity.
In this annual overview, we reflect on 2023, a year where renewal and unity took center stage for Bureau REACH. The REACH revision has been postponed until after 2024, but the revitalization of many other plans within the European Chemicals Strategy has already been set in motion. Consider, for example, the adaptation of CLP. All of this injects fresh energy into 2024.
Highlights of 2023
In 2023, our workload was extensive and varied. We contributed to various REACH and CLP processes through Dutch proposals, comments, and policy advice. One of the highlights was the submission of the PFAS restriction proposal in collaboration with European colleagues, a significant step in our pursuit of safe chemical management. Explore all the highlights of 2023 here.
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Proposal for PFAS Ban
In January 2023, the Netherlands, together with four other countries, submitted a proposal for an EU-wide ban on PFAS.
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European Court of Justice Ruling on GenX
The European Court of Justice issued a ruling on GenX this year.
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Harmonised classification of synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide
Bureau REACH conducted a substance evaluation for synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide.
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Revision of CLP and GHS Regulation
Bureau REACH contributed to the hazard classes introduced in the CLP regulation.
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Validation of New Test Methods
There are promising new test methods to reduce or replace animal testing.
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Key Figures 2023
The key figures for 2023 at Bureau REACH provide valuable insights into our impact. They are essential for measuring the progress and effectiveness of our work. These numbers not only demonstrate the scope of our activities but also highlight our involvement in European regulations concerning chemical substances. They offer insight into our contribution to ensuring the safe handling of chemicals at the European level.
About Bureau REACH
Bureau REACH plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of chemical substances in the Netherlands and Europe. It contributes to the implementation and enhancement of European regulations, such as Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), and Classification, Labelling, and Packaging (CLP). Additionally, it serves as a point of contact for companies to clarify their obligations.
> Download our organizational chart
Other notable projects
In 2023, Bureau REACH distinguished itself with a diverse range of projects. In addition to the PFAS ban, work was underway on several other notable initiatives. Examples include the proposal for a ban on microplastics and serving as rapporteurs in the Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) for Creosote. This variety demonstrates the breadth and depth of Bureau REACH's work.
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Ban on microplastics
Since October 17, 2023, a European ban on microplastics has been in effect. Here's how we contributed to this.
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Completed and ongoing RMOAs
In 2023, Bureau REACH completed and submitted six Regulatory Management Option Analyses (RMOAs). Learn more about them.
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Two SVHC dossiers were formulated
In 2023, Bureau REACH took action on two dossiers for Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC).
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RAC rapporteurs for nitrous oxide and tea tree oil
In 2023, Bureau REACH contributed with two independent Dutch experts to the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC).
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SEAC rapporteurship Creosote
Ban on second-hand wood treated with creosote.
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Graphene placed on CoRAP
Bureau REACH informed the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) about the intention to include graphene in the Community Rolling Action Plan (CoRAP).
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Asbestos restriction
Asbestos can cause various forms of cancer, resulting in hundreds of victims annually in the Netherlands.
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Environmental-Economic Strategy and Roadmap
There has been an increasing demand for knowledge in the field of Social-Economic Assessment (SEA) and environmental economics (ME) in recent years.
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The Helpdesk of Bureau REACH
Bureau REACH's helpdesk assists companies with their REACH and CLP obligations, offering a platform for inquiries. In 2023, numerous questions were raised, notably regarding the new restriction on the use of microplastics and the obligations concerning the production and sale of (scented) candles.
