ECHA’s New Report: Scientific Research Is Essential for Health, the Environment and Competitiveness
ECHA’s New Report: Scientific Research Is Essential for Health, the Environment and Competitiveness
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has updated its Key Areas of Regulatory Challenge report by adding new topics in line with the European Commission’s Clean Industrial Deal and Competitiveness Compass. The Agency highlights the need for specific scientific research to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals and to support the development of balanced, effective regulatory measures.
New Research Priorities Highlighted in the Report
The updated report reflects ECHA’s expanding responsibilities and adds emerging topics—particularly in waste and recycling—that support circularity and strengthen Europe’s industrial competitiveness.
Areas where more research is needed:
Chemical emissions and exposure during the waste phase of materials, to produce more accurate emission estimates and avoid overly conservative regulations
Recycled non-fossil fuel-based materials, to better understand their hazards and support EU policies on pollution reduction and sustainable growth
Valuation of environmental impacts, to evaluate the effectiveness and proportionality of regulatory actions under frameworks such as REACH and the Batteries Regulation
Statement from Dr. Sharon McGuinness, ECHA Executive Director
“Since ECHA’s first report in 2023, we’ve seen critical scientific research begin to take shape.
For instance, analytical methods are being developed to detect and measure PFAS for enforcement purposes, and monitoring data is being generated for a specific phthalate of concern.”
“This updated report aligns with the Clean Industrial Deal and Competitiveness Compass by encouraging focused research that drives circular economy efforts and supports innovation across Europe.”
Other Emerging Research Needs
Improved methods for monitoring chemicals in aquatic environments, including rivers, lakes, and oceans
Understanding how materials in contact with drinking water may contaminate water supplies with hazardous chemicals
Background: About the PARC Programme
This report is part of a growing research and development agenda intended to guide and inspire the scientific community. It was originally designed to support the Partnership for the Assessment of Risks from Chemicals (PARC).
What is PARC?
PARC is a seven-year EU-wide research and innovation programme funded under Horizon Europe. It aims to:
Advance scientific research
Improve data sharing and transparency
Strengthen chemical regulatory risk assessment capabilities
ECHA’s Role in PARC:
ECHA ensures that scientific research funded under PARC addresses real regulatory challenges related to chemical safety and contributes directly to improving EU regulatory frameworks.