20 years on, Arctic unprepared for another Exxon Valdez
Two decades after the Exxon Valdez oil tanker struck Bligh Reef and spilt millions of litres of oil into the delicate Arctic environment, governments and industry in the region remain unprepared to deal with another such disaster, according to a new analysis by WWF.
First REACH hazardous chemicals list is a drop in the ocean
The first-ever list of 15 hazardous chemicals released today by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is a welcome start, but it is a drop in the ocean when compared to the hundreds of well-known dangerous substances present in products used every day across Europe, said a coalition of environmental, health, consumer and women’s public interest groups.
Chinese central bank and WWF outline greener banking roadmap
Chinese commercial banks should establish environmental reporting, assessment, management, and risk evaluation systems to promote sustainable development in China, according to a new report today from WWF and the People’s Bank of China (PBoC), the country’s financial and monetary regulatory agency.
Marine poison banned
A milestone in the protection of the oceans was reached today as a global ban on tributyltin (TBT) - one of the most toxic chemicals deliberately released into the sea - entered into force.
First improvements on nanoparticles under REACH chemicals law
Brussels, Belgium – With a decision made yesterday, carbon and graphite will not be exempted anymore from registration under REACH, the European chemicals regulation.
New European Chemicals Agency must act on hazardous chemicals
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) will open on 3rd of June 2008 in Helsinki. Its task is to assure the implementation of REACH, the EU chemicals regulation that entered into force on 1st June 2007 after 8 years of fierce debate.
Finally justice on hazardous chemical in electronics
WWF welcomes today’s ruling of the European Court of Justice against the European Commission’s decision to exempt the flame retardant deca-BDE from the ban in electronic products. WWF is relieved that this substance will be finally banned from TVs and computers from July 2008 (as it should have been since 2006).
Too early to celebrate REACH
One week before the European Union’s new chemicals legislation – REACH - enters into force (1 June 2007), European environmental, women’s, health and consumer groups have warned in an open letter to the European Commission that REACH cannot be celebrated until it is strengthened to provide proper health and environmental protection.
EU passes new chemical law
After years of debate, European lawmakers adopted new chemical legislation that will oblige producers and importers of chemicals to prove that the substances they put on the EU market are safe for consumers.
REACH: Alive but not kicking
Strasbourg, France – A plenary vote by Members of the European Parliament has left the new EU chemicals legislation REACH alive but in a critical condition, according to health, environment, consumer and women’s advocacy groups.
