The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has officially published the updated Community Rolling Action Plan (CoRAP) for the period 2026-2028, a key instrument under the REACH Regulation for prioritising substances requiring further regulatory scrutiny. This update reflects the EU’s continued commitment to identifying and addressing potential risks posed by chemicals to human health and the environment.
The CoRAP is established under Title VI of REACH (Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006) and serves as a rolling list of substances selected for evaluation by Member State competent authorities. Its primary objective is to clarify whether the use of certain substances may pose risks that warrant additional regulatory action, such as restrictions, authorisation, or further data generation.
The CoRAP 2026-2028 update, adopted on 24 March 2026, includes a total of 27-28 substances scheduled for evaluation over the three-year period. Of these, 17 substances are planned for assessment in 2026, while the remaining substances will be evaluated in 2027 and 2028. In addition, eight substances have been newly introduced compared to the previous CoRAP 2025–2027, and one substance has been removed due to sufficient available data addressing initial concerns.
Substances included in the CoRAP 2026-2028 are selected based on risk-based criteria, combining intrinsic hazard properties with exposure considerations. These criteria include carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, reproductive toxicity (CMR), endocrine disruption, persistence, bioaccumulation, and mobility in the environment, as well as factors such as widespread use and high production volumes. The aim is to focus regulatory attention on substances where existing data are insufficient to fully assess potential risks.
Once a substance is listed in the CoRAP, the designated Member State carries out an in-depth evaluation. This process may involve requesting additional information from registrants to clarify identified concerns. The outcome of these evaluations can have significant regulatory consequences, potentially triggering risk management measures at EU level.
From an industry perspective, the publication of the CoRAP 2026-2028 update represents an important early warning mechanism. Companies manufacturing or using listed substances are encouraged to proactively review their registration dossiers, update hazard and exposure data, and engage with evaluating authorities. Early preparation is essential to respond effectively to potential information requests and to anticipate future regulatory developments.
In conclusion, the CoRAP 2026-2028 update highlights ECHA’s strategic role in advancing chemical safety within the European Union. By prioritising substances of concern and promoting a structured evaluation process, the plan supports a more proactive and risk-based approach to chemical management, aligned with the broader objectives of the EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability.
