Press release
ClientEarth calls out EU for untransparent approach to chemicals regulation revision
25 March 2025
ClientEarth representatives attended today’s Strategic Dialogue on the Chemicals Industry Package in Brussels.
Following the meeting, ClientEarth legal expert Julian Schenten said:
“This was meant to be a discussion on the future of the chemical sector to become more sustainable—but instead, we saw a push for weaker rules that put industry profits over public health. Competitiveness and growth cannot be an end in and of themselves, we need to protect the environment and people’s wellbeing.”
“There’s still no clarity as to what will happen next: will the Commission properly consult stakeholders or will it make crucial decisions behind closed doors? The whole affair feels like a box-ticking exercise for the Commission, not a true dialogue.”
Schenten concluded: “If implemented correctly, REACH would protect public health as well as give businesses a clear framework for innovation. If we eliminate key aspects of REACH, we’re not ‘simplifying’—we’re giving a free pass to companies to continue business as usual.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
ClientEarth attended the dialogue to push for a regulatory framework that effectively removes harmful chemicals while ensuring investment in safer alternatives. We expressed concerns about the worrying pathway of the discussions.
The "dialogue” consisted of brief, three-minute presentations with little to no engagement from the European Commission, and with limited opportunities for meaningful exchange. ClientEarth lawyers think it cannot replace a public consultation.
The event involved only around 25 stakeholders, omitting key voices from the business sector that could offer valuable perspectives on stricter regulations—such as alternative providers or consumer brands.
More information about our demands here.
About ClientEarth
ClientEarth is a non-profit organisation that uses the law to create systemic change that protects the Earth for – and with – its inhabitants. We are tackling climate change, protecting nature and stopping pollution, with partners and citizens around the globe. We hold industry and governments to account, and defend everyone’s right to a healthy world. From our offices in Europe, Asia and the USA we shape, implement and enforce the law, to build a future for our planet in which people and nature can thrive together.