Making chemicals safer
December 14, 2006 11:09 AM
Speaking after today's vote by MEPs in favour new EU chemical legislation (REACH), West Midlands region MEP Liz Lynne said:
"We have struck a balance between the commercial interests of the chemicals industry and the need to provide better protection for human health and the environment from chemicals with unknown long term effects.
"More than 17,000 chemicals produced in very small quantities will not have to undergo rigorous examination, but hazardous products will be subjected to greater control than ever before.
"Persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic chemicals, plus hormone disrupters, will now have to be taken off the market if suitable alternatives are available.
"The clear message from MEPs is that the industry must give emphasis to developing safer alternatives to chemicals of very high concern.
"Instead of national authorities having to justify concern about particular chemicals, the responsibility for proving that their products are safe will now rest with the manufacturers."
Editor's Notes
For more information please go to http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/expert/infopress_page/064-1496-345-12-50-911-20061213IPR01493-11-12-2006-2006-true/default_en.htm
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