Brexit and What It Means For REACH and CLP

Abstract

This article examines the consequences of the so-called Brexit in view of the EU regulatory regime on chemicals. Two years ago, a Member State leaving the EU was regarded by most as a merely theoretical scenario. Yet, following the referendum of 23 June 2016, actors both in the political and economic sphere have to adapt quickly in order to master imminent challenges. To address these challenges, this paper will first outline the basic legal framework that governs the UK's withdrawal from the EU and the development of this procedure up to now. In a second step, it will examine specific problems in view of EU chemicals regulation while providing some ideas as regards possible solutions.