On October 14, 2024, the European Council unanimously adopted the revised regulation on the Classification, Labeling, and Packaging (CLP) of chemicals.
The updated CLP regulation introduces significant changes, including the addition of new hazard classes to address endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs); persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) substances; and very persistent, very bioaccumulative (vPvB) substances. Notably, endocrine disruptors are sub-classified as EDCs for human health and/or EDCs for the environment as is used in the REACH regulation.
The CLP regulation will continue to build on the existing classification structure and available information from REACH. Chemicals already included in the REACH Candidate List due to their status as EDC, PBT, or vPvB substances will have these classifications automatically added to the harmonized classification under CLP. This approach will also apply to substances with EDC properties according to Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 concerning plant protection products (e.g., pesticides).
Voluntary digital labeling of chemical products is now permitted. Physical labels must still comply with internationally recognized labeling requirements of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).
Additionally, specific rules have been introduced for labeling chemicals sold to professionals or the public at refill stations, which is becoming increasingly common with products like detergents. These changes support the EU’s broader push toward sustainability and waste reduction, as outlined in the EU Green Deal (FPF reported), Circular Economy Action Plan (FPF reported), and Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (FPF reported).
References
European Council (October 14, 2024). “Chemicals: Council adopts regulation on classification, labelling and packaging.”
European Council (December 22, 2023). “Safer chemicals: Council and Parliament strike deal on the regulation for classification, labelling and packaging of chemical substances.”
