South Korea’s Ministry of Environment (MOE) recently proposed an amendment (2024-455) to the regulations under The Act on the Registration and Evaluation of Chemicals (K-REACH). This amendment aims to clarify conditions for data submission exemptions and introduces registration exemptions for chemicals produced from recycled materials. The changes are expected to be in effect by October 10, 2024, following a public consultation period ending on September 13, 2024.

Key Exemption Conditions for Data Submission

The draft amendment outlines several conditions where data submission for chemical registration can be fully or partially exempted:

• Previous Submissions: If registrants have already submitted registration assessment results for similar chemical substances, they may qualify for exemptions.
• Toxicity Assessments by Foreign Entities: Exemptions are also possible if toxicity assessment results have been published by foreign governments or international organizations.
• Discretion of the MOE: In specific cases, the MOE may decide that data submission is unnecessary and will announce such instances.

These exemptions aim to reduce the regulatory burden on companies while maintaining stringent chemical safety standards.

Registration Exemptions for Recycled Materials

One of the most notable updates in the draft amendment involves registration exemptions for chemicals produced from recycled materials. Companies applying for these exemptions will need to submit documents proving that the substances are derived from recycled materials. Acceptable documents include:

• For Recyclers of Own Waste: A certificate of the industrial waste emitter report or confirmation of the waste management plan.
• For Licensed Waste Management Companies: A valid waste recycling business license.
• For Waste Treatment Facility Operators: A certificate of approval for waste recycling facility installation or a report on the installation of such facilities.
• For Waste Management Reporters: A waste treatment report certificate.

Supplementary documentation, such as a brief description of the recycling process or a process flow diagram, may also be required. If the substance has already been registered by another manufacturer or importer, proof of registration for over three years is needed. Additionally, if intermediate products are used in manufacturing, documentation showing they are either transported or onsite-separated must be provided.

Public Consultation and Implementation Timeline

The MOE encourages the public, companies, and other stakeholders to submit their feedback on the proposed amendment by September 13, 2024. The updated regulations are expected to promote better chemical safety management and environmental protection once they take effect in October.

Source