Simplified rules for assessing chemicals have come into force in the EU

Simplified rules for assessing chemicals have come into force in the EU shutterstock

Maria Semenova

Europe will predict the likely impact of chemicals in advance to prevent negative consequences from their use

At the beginning of 2026, the "One Substance, One Assessment" (OSOA) package of laws came into force in the European Union. The aim is to make the assessment of chemicals in food, toys, pesticides, and biocides more reliable, consistent, and effective. This was announced by the European Commission.

A single platform as a basis

Within three years, a common platform for data on chemical substances should be operational in the EU. It will provide open access to consolidated data on chemical substances.

The European Union is convinced that this will make it easier for authorities to find up-to-date information that complies with EU laws and will improve the quality and speed of informed decision-making.

Coordinated work without duplication

The new rules will help European agencies dealing with chemicals to join forces for scientific and technical work, rationally distribute tasks, and avoid duplication.

Scientific assessment is planned to be delegated to institutions that have the experience and tools appropriate to specific tasks.

Early detection of chemical risks

The OSOA package introduces a prediction and monitoring system. The EU plans to systematically collect data and analyze it using indicators and early-warning tools. This will make it possible to detect risks posed by particular chemicals in advance and avoid them.

“By simplifying the assessment process for chemicals, we can act earlier and more decisively to protect human health and the environment. This new framework will simplify access to reliable data, strengthen our scientific cooperation, and improve the EU’s ability to anticipate and manage chemical risks,” said Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience, and Competitive Circular Economy, Jessica Roswall.

Earlier, EcoPolitiс reported that changes were introduced in Ukraine to national equivalents of the Euroregulations UA-CLP and UA-REACH. They concern the classification, labeling, and packaging of chemical products. Experts note that there are serious obstacles to fully implementing the new standards in Ukraine – from unprepared businesses to governmental shortcomings.

Related
The introduction of EPR could generate 16 billion UAH for waste treatment in Ukraine each year – an expert
The introduction of EPR could generate 16 billion UAH for waste treatment in Ukraine each year – an expert

Private investment in the sector will also create up to 80,000 jobs and bring billions in tax revenue into the formal economy

A breakthrough in hunting or the legalisation of killing: how Ukrainians are reacting to Bill No. 15431
A breakthrough in hunting or the legalisation of killing: how Ukrainians are reacting to Bill No. 15431

The bill’s main author describes it as a step towards a “model hunting culture”