Press release

Strengthening REACH: ClientEarth calls for stronger chemical protections, not loopholes

21 March 2025

ClientEarth was invited to participate in the High-Level Strategic Dialogue on the Chemicals Industry Package on 25 March, alongside industry representatives and other NGOs. Despite the opportunity for dialogue, ClientEarth remains concerned about the direction of the discussions.

ClientEarth senior lawyer Julian Schenten commented: “The ongoing legislative process risks diluting critical protections and undermining the fundamental objectives of REACH—ensuring a high level of protection for human health and the environment.”

“Any move towards deregulation that compromises these protections is unacceptable. Any further changes to the REACH proposal to fit the deregulation agenda should be subject to public consultation. We regret the Commission’s emerging approach to civil society engagement. A single high-level meeting, where stakeholders are given less than 5 minutes to express their views, cannot replace the need for formal input.”

Schenten concluded: “Let’s not make this process into another Omnibus, putting industry interests over essential safety measures. Effective regulation should be made based on science and must prioritise health and safety while driving innovation towards safer alternatives.”

ClientEarth urges the European Commission to ensure that civil society voices are meaningfully considered throughout the legislative process.

ENDS

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.