The EU Council is seeking member states' support for compromise texts on three legislative files under the 'One Substance, One Assessment' (OSOA) policy, which aims to streamline chemicals assessment and management across the bloc. The proposals cover revisions to the RoHS Directive, an Omnibus regulation on re-attributing tasks, and a regulation for a Common Data Platform on chemicals. The Presidency will also discuss the Commission's new Communication on defining 'essential uses' for the most hazardous substances.
The discussion took place during a Council meeting on 27 May 2024, as outlined in a meeting document published on 2 October 2026. The OSOA initiative is part of the EU's broader Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, seeking to improve efficiency, coherence, and transparency in chemical risk assessments. The three files represent key legislative steps to operationalise OSOA.
Policy Orientations and Trade-offs The compromise texts aim to balance environmental and health protection with industry feasibility. The RoHS Directive revision may tighten restrictions on hazardous substances in electronics, while the Omnibus regulation reallocates tasks among EU agencies (ECHA, EFSA, EEA) to avoid duplication. The Common Data Platform seeks to centralise chemical data, enhancing transparency but raising data-sharing and confidentiality concerns. The 'essential uses' definition will determine when the most harmful chemicals can still be used, potentially restricting many industrial applications.
Impact on Stakeholders - EU regulatory bodies: Agencies like ECHA and EFSA will see expanded roles and coordination requirements, requiring operational adjustments. - Chemical industry: Companies face new compliance costs from stricter RoHS rules and data-sharing obligations, but benefit from streamlined assessments and clearer 'essential uses' criteria. - EU consumers: Improved chemical safety and transparency, but potential price increases for products affected by RoHS restrictions. - Environmental NGOs: Welcome stricter controls and transparency, but may push for faster phase-outs of hazardous substances.
Institutional Follow-up The Council will continue discussions on the compromise texts, aiming for a general approach. The European Parliament will also need to adopt its positions, with trilogues expected later. The Commission's 'essential uses' Communication will inform future regulatory decisions under REACH and other chemicals legislation.
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