The European Union Council approved a new rule on the classification, labelling, and packaging of chemical substances (CLP). This is the final phase in the decision-making process for the updated law.

The CLP regulation, which updates current EU law from 2008, seeks to clarify and adapt chemical ingredient labelling requirements to modern trade activities, such as internet sales and bulk purchases. It also increases the circularity of chemical goods, improves the clarity and readability of labels (including digital labels), and provides greater protection against chemical hazards. 

Background

The revision of the CLP regulation, as well as the expected change of the REACH Regulation, is an important component of the chemicals Strategy for sustainability, which is part of the European Green Deal. The Commission submitted its proposal in ‘December 2022’, and the Council and European Parliament obtained a preliminary agreement in ‘December 2023’.

New Regulation:

• This regulation addresses developing concerns linked with chemical goods, including endocrine disruptors and the long-term impacts of specific substances.
• It makes it easier to report new hazards and allows the Commission and stakeholders to more properly classify hazardous compounds.
• The regulation codifies the criteria for optional digital labelling and establishes particular standards for refill stations.
• A five year exemption is granted for botanical origin substances that have not been chemically changed. 

Following Council approval, the legislative act will be signed by both the President of the European Parliament and the President of the Council. It will then be published in the Official Journal of the European Union and come into effect 20 days later.