Legislation on Cosmetics Set To Get Tougher As Greens Secure Safeguards Against Nanomaterials

South East Green MEP welcomes new 'safety-first' approach

A Green initiative in the European Parliament has led to revision of EU cosmetics legislation, which will provide for new and groundbreaking rules on nanomaterials.

No rules are currently in place for these tiny materials, which are classified as being around one tenth of a micrometre (or less) in at least one dimension. This is despite concerns about the effects of nanotechnology on human health, and the fact that cosmetic products are among the most likely to include such materials.

Commenting on today's European Parliament plenary vote in Strasbourg (1) to introduce new rules on nanomaterials, Green MEP for the South East Caroline Lucas said:

"We welcome today's European Parliament vote for new safeguards for nanomaterials used in cosmetics. Everyday cosmetic products which contain nanomaterials - such as sun lotions, lipsticks and anti-ageing cream - will at last be subject to rules on authorisation, safety testing and labelling.

"Many products containing nanomaterials are already on the European market, despite serious concerns about the effects of these tiny particles on human health and the environment. Today's vote marks a radical departure from the current EU Commission position, which has so far argued that the existing EU legislation is adequate.

"The new 'safety-first' approach will mean nanomaterial products will have to pass strict safety testing if they are to make it onto an EU list to be approved for market. Consumers will also be able make an informed choice about such products, since specific labelling will become compulsory for all cosmetic products containing nanomaterials.

Caroline Lucas concluded: "However, while we welcome today's vote, the Greens are unhappy with the narrow definition being used for nanomaterials in this instance, so limiting the scope of the new provisions to 'insoluble' or 'persistent' nanomaterials. To provide full and effective protection, cosmetics legislation should cover all nanomaterials, not just some. The Greens want the Commission to quickly revise the definition to bring it in line with international definitions."