Some thirty representatives of pinfa member companies joined pinfa’s 15th anniversary General Assembly in Rome, 21-22 October 2024. Members discussed the increasing regulatory pressure on chemicals in Europe, with reports from member company and Cefic experts on EU chemicals policy developments, REACH revision, ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) work on flame retardants, EU EcoDesign, Construction Products Regulation as well as global news from China, North America and UN Global Plastics Treaty developments. Members discussed joint projects developing information on upcycling of end-of-life FR plastics, recycling of automotive and electric vehicle FR plastics and leaching potential of FRs from plastics. Increasing regulatory pressure on chemical producers in Europe is posing economic challenges for companies, because chemicals manufactured outside Europe and imported in articles (such as computer, smart phones, car parts …) escape most EU chemical safety restrictions and data requirements. Tightening regulations will however offer long-term opportunities for PIN flame retardants which can ensure fire safety with positive environment and health profiles.
Companies producing, distributing or using flame retardants in Europe (compounders, OEMs) can become members of pinfa, to participate in pinfa’s actions and joint projects. Members have access to information and networking at the EU level and globally via pinfa’s sister associations in North America and China.