Today is the first important registration milestone under the REACh Regulation! Eurometaux is pleased to report that its members have successfully registered their substances manufactured or imported over 1000 tons per year by this first registration deadline. In addition, companies have registered a series of complex inorganic intermediates.

The European non-ferrous metals industry has invested extensive resources, estimated at around € 200 million, to make REACH work for its substances and to meet its obligations under the Regulation.

The industry has worked through well-organised consortia to ensure the optimal technical and economical preparation of the substance dossiers. Eurometaux and the metals consortia have supported the industry through metals-specific tools and guidance documents, training and workshops, advice and representation at ECHA meetings.

The non-ferrous metals industry is aware that the first registration deadline is only a first step and that other challenges will follow. Lower-volume substances will be registered by the future deadlines, and companies, supported by consortia, have already started preparing for the next
obligations under REACH.

With a view to ensuring the efficient and cost-effective implementation of the next REACH requirements, Eurometaux strongly calls for :
o stability of the legal framework and avoidance of changes in the interpretation of
definitions, existing guidance documents and concepts;
o balanced and pragmatic implementation of the Regulation;
o reasonable timing for the implementation of new and changed rules and interpretations, such as for intermediates - e.g. “strictly controlled conditions”;
o a proportional and realistic approach to the review of the REACH Regulation;
o recognition of the data and knowledge generated under REACH in chemicals and other legislation.

Eurometaux will continue to support its members and cooperate with ECHA and the European Commission to ensure that the REACH obligations are implemented in a sound, proportional and pragmatic manner.

For further information, please contact:
Eurometaux – European Association of Metals
Annick Carpentier
Tel. +32 2 775 6314
E-mail: carpentier@eurometaux.be
Website : http://www.eurometaux.eu