Tèxtils.CAT, coordinator of the LIFE-FLAREX project, participated in the workshop on innovation and the definition of the chemical product management strategy, organized by the Directorate General for Environment of the European Commission (DG-ENV) in Brussels.
The workshop was led by the consulting firm Wood, along with the Lowell Center at the University of Massachusetts, and was attended by various authorities from the Commission, including Joanna Drake, Vice President of the Directorate General for Environment, and Cristina d’Avila, Head of the Chemical Products Unit.
The workshop began with introductory presentations showcasing different experiences in the substitution and/or elimination of hazardous chemicals across various industries, as well as the main barriers overcome in each practical case. Subsequently, several working dynamics were organized to establish a strategy aimed at identifying R&D opportunities arising from policies for substituting hazardous chemicals. Generally, the main lines of work that emerged included improving communication and information exchange, fostering collaboration across the value chain, and finally, the necessary changes at the public policy level to share risks and promote innovation.
Participants came from diverse backgrounds, including chemical, textile, paint, and other sectors, along with representatives from the public sector and research centers from across Europe.