ECHA’s New Recommendations for EU REACH Authorisation List

On 18 November 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) recommended that the European Commission adds four substances to the REACH Authorisation List, citing concerns over their potential risks to human health and the environment. The full article can be found on the ECHA website here.

The four substances in question are:

• Barium diboron tetraoxide
• S-(tricyclo[5.2.1.0²,⁶]deca-3-en-8(or 9)-yl) O-(isopropyl or isobutyl or 2-ethylhexyl) phosphorodithioate
• Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide, and
• Melamine.

The inclusion of Melamine has raised some eyebrows, as most of its uses are as an intermediate – which do not require authorisation. However, other applications may now require companies to seek approval. ECHA acknowledged the potential added workload for businesses and regulators but stressed the need to manage risks effectively – in line with their obligations.

The move is part of ECHA’s ongoing efforts to phase out substances of very high concern (SVHCs) and promote safer alternatives.

RPA has extensive experience in assisting businesses in navigating changing chemical regulation and providing Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) for affected substances.

To contact the RPA Chemicals Team, email chemicals@rpa.co.uk, contact us or call +44 (0)1603 558 442.