JBCE's Environment & Energy Committee contributed to the call for evidence for restricting the use of certain non-polymeric Aromatic Brominated Flame Retardants (ABFRs).

17/03/2026

On 17 March 2026, JBCE submitted its response to the call for evidence on the restriction of certain non-polymeric ABFRs under the EU REACH.

In its response, JBCE highlighted the crucial function of flame retardants in ensuring the fire safety of Electric and Electronic Equipment (EEE), and noted that strict flammability requirements are already established under various EU product safety legislations. JBCE emphasised that no technically feasible alternatives with equivalent performance are currently available for certain applications, such as printed wiring boards, connectors, and cables.

JBCE also raised concerns about the proposed transition period, stressing that an 18-month would be insufficient for complex articles such as EEE. JBCE underlined the need for longer, category-specific transition periods and exemptions, particularly for applications where substitution is not yet technically feasible.

Furthermore, JBCE expressed support for a science- and risk-based regulatory approach in line with the REACH framework, while also voicing reservations about extending restrictions without confirmed hazard identification or sufficient impact assessment.

For more information please contact:

Masakazu Shimosawa, Policy Manager, Environment & Energy

Hiroshi Odani, Policy Manager, Environment & Energy

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