Endocrine Effects, Environmental Risk Feedback Sought for Dibutyl Phthalate, Bisphenols

Bisphenols have been implicated in disruptions to the growth, reproduction and development of aquatic organisms.
Bisphenols have been implicated in disruptions to the growth, reproduction and development of aquatic organisms.

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) highlighted two approaching deadlines by which cosmetic industry stakeholders can provide comments and evidence for REACH-related ingredient restrictions.

Dibutyl Phthalate: Jan. 5, 2021

Comments to update entries in the REACH Authorization list are due by Jan. 5, 2021, for dibutyl phthalate (DBP), in addition to bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP). According to the European Commission (EC), Annex XIV to the REACH Regulation lists substances of very high concern that require authorization before they can be placed on the market. This list is updated regularly in line with recommendations by the ECHA.

See related: Phthalates Flagged for Endocrine Disruption

The present call for comments aims to update the entries for the DEHP, DBP, BBP and DIBP for their endocrine-disrupting properties. According to the EC, these chemicals are known to have negative health impacts and to harm the environment. Submit comments to the commission by Jan. 5, here.

Bisphenol A and Derivatives: Feb. 15, 2021

In addition, the ECHA highlighted a call for data submissions by German authorities over the potential environmental risk posed by bisphenol A and structurally related bisphenols. These entities have been implicated in disruptions to the growth, reproduction and development of aquatic organisms. The ECHA underlined that participating now allows interested parties to express their views and concerns in this preparatory phase of the restriction proposal.

See related: Update, TSCA Reform Bill Signed Into Law, What You Need to Know

The manufacture, import, use and sale of bisphenol-related materials will be investigated, as will their potential substitution, alternatives and the socio-economic impact of substitution. Information on the life cycle, emissions to the environment and use of bisphenol A and related materials in articles and their occurrence in polymers is also of interest. Submit comments by Feb. 15, here.

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