NGOs Challenge European Commission on Lead Chromate Pigment Authorisation

The European Commission is facing a second court challenge for allowing a Canadian company to sell two dangerous chemicals used for road markings and painting industrial machines in the EU. Environmental lawyers ClientEarth, the European Environmental Bureau (EEB), the International Chemical Secretariat (ChemSec) and IPEN are taking the European Commission to court after it refused to withdraw an EU-wide permit allowing the use of lead chromate pigments.

To date, the European Chemical Agency has received 380 notifications of companies declaring the use of lead chromate pigments in the EU since this authorisation. This is hindering the use of safer alternatives EU companies have invested in. Many companies have also already declared their intention to export these hazardous products to poorly regulated markets outside the EU. 

The campaigners said: “The Commission's insistence on keeping this chemical authorisation while recognising its flaws shows a complete lack of respect for EU regulation, as well as a complete disregard for the EU’s international commitment to eliminate lead in paint. The Commission had clear evidence showing the availability of alternatives but granted the authorisation anyway. We are asking the Court to put the authorisation process back on track.”

Read the press release here