Governance & Policy

REACH Regulation

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Definition

REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) is the EU's flagship chemicals regulation, in force since 2007. It requires manufacturers and importers to register substances produced above one tonne per year with safety data; provides for evaluation of dossiers; subjects substances of very high concern to authorisation for continued use; and allows restriction of dangerous substances. Its core principle is that industry, not regulators, must demonstrate that chemicals can be used safely.

References

echa.europa.euBulk import source

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Source organisationSupporting reference

This reference provides supporting context for how “REACH Regulation” is defined and used.

Overview

How it is used

Compliance structures entire chemical supply chains — registration dossiers, safety data sheets, authorisation applications; downstream users and importers worldwide must track EU obligations, giving REACH extraterritorial influence.

Why it matters

REACH is the world's most comprehensive chemicals safety regime and the reference point for chemicals policy reform globally — including debates on PFAS restriction and the EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability.