The Podcast: TSCA key developments, EU chemicals policy
Brought to you by members of the Chemical Watch News & Insight team. The second of three special episodes looks at the impact of upcoming elections in the US and EU on chemicals management. Insights on actions under TSCA and the EU chemicals strategy for sustainability. Read on for a summary of the latest podcast insights.
5 Key takeaways on election year in the US and EU
The presidential election in the US in the autumn and EU elections in June are set to shape the direction of chemicals management activities in 2024 and beyond. Here are key takeaways from the second special Chemical Watch News & Insight podcast episode discussing the implications. The podcast is focused on our Global Outlook series of articles.
What you need to know:
1. EPA’s action will ramp up
In anticipation of the upcoming US presidential election, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to go full steam ahead with actions under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). With multiple risk management rules for existing substances in the pipeline, the agency aims to solidify policies it has implemented in the past few years while navigating fresh legal challenges. The impact of TSCA is far reaching.
2. A busy year ahead for TSCA
Although TSCA was amended in 2016, it is only now that EPA has a framework in place to get its chemicals regulation program up and running. Following years of groundwork, the agency is set to deliver several proposed risk management rules, aiming to finalize these before the election on November 5. These rules cover a range of high-priority chemicals, signaling a significant step forward in TSCA implementation.
3. Uncertainty on EPA deliverables
The looming elections introduce uncertainty regarding EPA’s ability to meet its targets. The threat of regulatory reversals under the Congressional Review Act means the first half of the year will likely be the busiest. Inevitable litigation remains a persistent challenge, potentially affecting the pace of regulatory progress, especially as rules are finalized.
4. EU elections and chemicals management
When a wave of green politicians was elected in the EU elections in 2019, progressive environmental actions under the Green Deal followed, including the launch of the EU chemicals strategy in 2020. There are signs initial momentum has waned. The outcome of elections in June will set the course for how the EU now moves forward with broader environmental legislation, and also the chemicals strategy.
5. Chemicals regulation is no longer siloed
Chemicals management is increasingly becoming integrated into broader environmental legislation, driven by global concerns such as pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Initiatives like the Green Claims Directive underscore a shift towards phasing out hazardous substances in consumer products.
Listen to the full podcast now
As the US and EU navigate potential political transitions, the landscape of chemicals regulation and policy is at a pivotal point. Listen to the full podcast for more insights on EPA’s planned activities under TSCA and likely changes in the EU.
Missed the first episode?
Catch up on the first Global Outlook special podcast episode to learn more about PFAS regulatory changes at the state level and the very latest on transport and storage regulations across the globe, as well as international environmental policy developments coming out of the UN.