The new European chemicals legislation—registration, evaluation, authorization, and restrictions of chemicals (REACH)—has started and with it the new European Chemicals Agency has begun operations in Helsinki. The REACH regulation will significantly improve protection of human health and the environment, while encouraging innovation and keeping the EU’s chemical industry competitive.

The agency, which is responsible for managing the implementation of the new requirements, will launch a Web site providing key information such as guidance documents, help desks, and other tools relating to REACH. The agency will have to work hard to become fully operational on June 1, 2008, when companies will begin on-line submission of preregistrations and registration dossiers. The agency’s interim executive director is Geert Dancet, who has been seconded by the commission to head the team that will get the agency started.

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