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A broad alliance of environmental, public health and consumer rights organisations has called on the European Commission to withdraw its Sixth Omnibus proposal on chemicals. Published on 8 July 2025, the proposal aims to amend the CLP, Cosmetic Products, and Fertilising Products Regulations. While presented as a simplification measure, critics argue it undermines essential protections for human health and the environment, reversing recent improvements and creating legal uncertainty for businesses that have already invested in compliance.
Lack of transparency and flawed evidence-base
The letter strongly criticises the Commission’s failure to conduct a proper public consultation or provide a robust evidence base for the changes. Instead, the proposal relies heavily on industry input while ignoring the voices of workers, consumers and civil society. It also fails to carry out required assessments under EU law, including proportionality and consistency checks with the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. Campaigners argue this lack of due process represents a serious case of maladministration and threatens both public trust and democratic accountability.
Legal risks undermine EU’s green credentials and business confidence
Legal experts warn that the proposal could face multiple challenges in EU courts due to breaches of fundamental legal principles and procedural rules. This uncertainty risks harming the very competitiveness the proposal claims to support. The Commission’s approach not only puts human health and environmental standards at risk but also undermines the EU’s credibility as a global leader in green policy and the rule of law. The signatories call on the Commission to withdraw the proposal entirely, stating that its legal and structural failings are too serious to be resolved through the legislative process.