REACH
The REACH directive was enforced in the European Union in 2007. The aim is to monitor and assess all material flows in the EU.
Since 1 December 2008 all chemicals that are produced or imported in the EU must be pre-registered at the European Chemical Agency in Helsinki.
Aurubis has successfully performed the pre-registration of materials and intermediates so that materials can be bought and sold without any problems. The preparation of the required registration dossier by 2010 is being performed cost-effectively together with competitors by the formation of consortiums.
This regulation also represents a not insignificant administration process for Aurubis. In Hamburg a network was set up by the Authorities for Industry and Labour (www.reach.hamburg.de) so as to ensure the timely implementation of REACH and to support in particular small and medium-sized businesses. Aurubis Hamburg is actively involved in this REACH network.
As in many sectors of environmental protection, Aurubis has also adopted a pioneer role as regards REACH in the EU copper industry – for example as the responsible registrant in the copper sector.
