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EU Updates RoHS Directive with Revised Lead Exemption Clauses

On November 21, 2025, the Official Journal of the European Union published three Commission Delegated Directives, introducing centralized revisions to multiple lead-related exemptions under the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS 2) Directive (2011/65/EU). These amendments focus on lead applications in alloys, glass/ceramics, and high melting temperature solders.

EU Proposes to Include Three Persistent Pollutants under POPs Regulation

On November 21, 2025, the European Commission released three draft proposals to upgrade and integrate three categories of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)—chlorpyrifos, medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs), and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (C9-21 PFCAs)—into Part A of Annex I to the EU POPs Regulation (EU) 2019/1021. The move aims to comprehensively prohibit their production, circulation, and use within the EU, with only minimal transitional exemptions granted to a very limited number of industries.

ECHA Proposes Adding TPO, Melamine, and Two Other Substances to REACH Authorisation List

On November 18, 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published its 12th recommendation for authorization, proposing for the first time to include four Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs), including melamine, into the REACH Authorisation List. If adopted by the European Commission, companies will need to submit applications and pass reviews to continue using these substances in the future.

ECHA Releases PFAS Draft Use Mapping

On November 5, 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published mapping of PFAS uses, serving as an industry support document for the upcoming public consultation on PFAS restrictions. The mapping systematically outlines PFAS applications across 14 major industrial, professional, and consumer sectors, including battery manufacturing, textiles, electronics, and PFAS production.

One Substance Added into the SVHC Candidate List, Bringing the Total to 251

November 5, 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) officially announced the 35th batch of 1 substance of very concern, bringing the total number of substances on the SVHC list (also known as the Candidate List) to 251. Earlier in October, the Member State Committee (MSC) unanimously agreed during its October meeting to classify this substance as a SVHC.

EU REACH Amendment Adds PFAS Control Provisions

On October 3, 2025, the European Commission published (EU) 2025/1988 in the Official Journal, amending Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation (Restrictions) to include item 82, which sets forth control requirements for PFAS in firefighting foams. The revised regulation will take effect on October 23, 2025. This amendment marks a significant step towards comprehensive PFAS regulation in the EU. The firefighting foam industry should pay close attention to this revision, and other industries should continue to monitor the EU's progress in regulating PFAS across all sectors.