ECHA will establish a new database on the presence of hazardous chemicals in articles by the end of 2019 for waste treatment operators and consumers. The database will comprise information submitted by companies producing, importing or selling articles that contain Candidate List substances. Companies need to submit this information by the end of 2020.
The task is based on the revised waste framework directive that entered into force in July 2018. It is part of the EU’s waste legislation package, contributing to the EU’s circular economy policy.
The information will be available to waste treatment operators and consumers and should help waste operators in treating waste and recycling materials. The goal is to improve the risk management of chemicals during waste recovery and to promote non-toxic material cycles.
The database aims to help consumers make informed choices for safer products. This will also increase pressure to substitute substances of concern.
This new task strengthens the need for good supply chain communication as foreseen under REACH, where companies have to communicate in the supply chain and notify ECHA about Candidate List substances in articles.