Understanding REACH
REACH stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of CHemicals. It entered into force on 1 June 2007.
REACH is a regulation of the European Union, adopted to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals, while enhancing the competitiveness of the EU chemicals industry. It also promotes alternative methods for the hazard assessment of substances in order to reduce the number of tests on animals.
REACH applies to all chemical substances; not only those used in industrial processes but also in our day-to-day lives, for example in cleaning products, paints as well as in articles such as clothes, furniture and electrical appliances. Therefore, the regulation has an impact on most companies across the EU.
REACH places the burden of proof on companies. To comply with the regulation, companies must identify and manage the risks linked to the substances they manufacture and market in the EU. They have to demonstrate how the substance can be safely used, and they must communicate the risk management measures to the users.If the risks cannot be managed, authorities can restrict the use of substances in different ways. In the long run, the most hazardous substances should be substituted with less dangerous ones.
More information about REACH: https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/reglementation-reach
Understanding LWG
- Water Management
- Energy use
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
- Waste Management
- Traceability of skins
Today, the Leather Working Group represents the largest network of environmentally audited tanneries across the globe, providing brands with a responsible global supply chain.
More information about LWG: https://www.leatherworkinggroup.com