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Two new substances of very high concern (SVHCs) added to the Candidate List

Two new substances of very high concern (SVHCs) added to the Candidate List

ECHA/PR/15/09

Helsinki, 15 June 2015 - The first new entry covers a series of mixed alkyl diesters (EC 271-094-0, CAS 68515-51-5; EC 272-013-1, CAS 68648-93-1) which were added to the list due to their reproductive toxicity properties where they contain ≥ 0.3% of dihexyl phthalate (EC No. 201-559-5). These substances are used for example as plasticisers and lubricants, including use in adhesives, coatings, building material, cable compounding, polymer foils, PVC compounds and artist supply (e.g. modelling clay and finger paints).

The second SVHC has been added as a group entry with very persistent and very bioaccumulative properties. This group of substances covers for example, the product with the trade name "karanal". Public information sources indicate that the main use of karanal is as a fragrance ingredient.

ECHA took the decision to include these two substances on the Candidate List based on proposals by Sweden and the Netherlands respectively, following the SVHC identification process with involvement of the Member State Committee. The Candidate List now contains 163 substances. Of those, 31 have subsequently been included in the Authorisation List.

Background information

The Candidate List is a list of substances that may have serious effects on human health or the environment. Substances on the Candidate List are also known as "substances of very high concern". The aim of publishing such a list is to inform the industry and general public that these substances are candidates for inclusion in the Authorisation List. The inclusion in the candidate list also triggers further information obligations for industry and gives  consumers the possibility to request information on these substances in articles. ECHA regularly prioritises the substances included in the Candidate List and recommends to the Commission their inclusion to the Authorisation List. Once they are on the Authorisation List, industry will need permission to continue using the substance after the sunset date.