Lead in paints: the challenge continues

ChemSec and its partner organisations are continuing the fight against the use of two chemicals of high concern in paints.

The legal challenge brought in 2017 by the International Chemical Secretariat (ChemSec), ClientEarth, the European Environmental Bureau (EEB), and the International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN) is still ongoing. The case challenges a decision of the European Commission allowing the use of two highly hazardous pigments in road markings and painting industrial machines.

Last Thursday, the four NGOs, supported by Sweden, defended their case during the public oral hearing before the Tribunal of the EU.

It all started in 2016, when the four NGOs requested the European Commission to reconsider an authorisation allowing a Canadian company to sell two pigments containing highly hazardous chemicals,lead sulfochromate yellow and lead chromate molybdate sulphate red.

“Last Thursday, the four NGOs, supported by Sweden, defended their case during the public oral hearing before the Tribunal of the EU”

The European Commission refused to review the authorisation, forcing the coalition to bring the case before the EU courts. In the meantime, Sweden also challenged the legality of this authorisation.

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