Press Release: New European Chemicals Agency starts operations as REACH enters into force

The new European chemicals legislation, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) enters into force on 1 June 2007, and with it the new European Chemicals Agency starts 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 website providing key information such as guidance documents, helpdesks and other tools relating to REACH. Starting on 1 June 2007, the Agency will have to work hard to become fully operational on 1 June 2008, when companies will begin on-line submission of pre-registrations and registration dossiers. The Agency's Interim Executive Director is Mr Geert Dancet, who has been seconded by the Commission to head the team which will get the Agency started.

European Commission: DG Communication: MEMO/07/218 http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/07/218&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

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