Date of Announcement: June 23, 2025
Public Consultation Period: June 23 – August 22, 2025
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has launched a public consultation to review active substances used in biocidal products that may be classified as candidates for substitution or considered for derogations. These evaluations are part of the EU’s broader chemical safety strategy under the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR).
What Is a Candidate for Substitution?
A substance is proposed as a candidate for substitution if it meets any of the following criteria:
• Classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction
• Considered persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB)
• Causes endocrine disruption
• Highly toxic to aquatic organisms
When identified, a comparative assessment is triggered to examine safer alternatives with lower human or environmental risks.
Understanding Derogations Even if a substance is flagged for substitution, it may still receive temporary approval (a derogation) if:
• No suitable alternatives currently exist
• The substance is essential for specific uses
• Risks can be adequately controlled
🕒 Duration: Derogations are usually valid for up to 5 years, subject to renewal and stringent regulatory oversight.
Why These Reviews Matter?
This regulatory process ensures that the riskiest biocidal substances are replaced over time, unless their use is justified under strict conditions. ECHA is currently evaluating several substances under both frameworks.
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Public Consultation: How to Participate
Stakeholders are encouraged to submit:
• Scientific data on alternatives
• Market and technical feasibility analyses
• Risk management data
• Socio-economic impacts of potential bans
📅 Deadline: August 22, 2025
🔗 Submit via: ECHA Consultation Portal
Regulatory Objective
This process supports the EU’s Sustainable Chemicals Strategy and aligns with the Green Deal goals by reducing risks from hazardous biocidal substances and ensuring a higher standard of public health and environmental protection.
Reference: ECHA – Current Candidates for Substitution and Derogations
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