LAS VEGAS—If companies haven’t already been working on their REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals) pre-registrations, they’re already behind the eight-ball, according to a presentation at SupplySide West. Mindy Goldstein, Ph.D., Estee Lauder, provided an overview of the REACH initiative, its deadlines and requirements, and what to expect on a global level after full implementation.
The REACH program requires companies to register every chemical they market in the European Union, whether as an imported ingredient or in a finished good, and will look at the occupational exposure and eco-safety of all ingredients. Goldstein noted the regulation will likely result in higher costs of ingredients and formulations, a reduced number of suppliers of particular ingredients, a loss of chemicals used as alternatives that are more environmental friendly are sought, and an immediate need to reformulate. She added the EU will be using consortiums to assist in sharing the cost of required toxicity testing, and urged companies to make sure they have open lines of communication with suppliers, importers and manufacturers. In addition, she said it is likely that this initiative will spark similar activity into Asia and North America, with Canada already working on a similar program.