To classify as strongly and widely as possible, or not to – that is the EU’s question on titanium dioxide right now. The chemical is found in many everyday items including sunscreen and paint and is a “suspected carcinogen”. Discussion of the classification issue are underway, and what is already clear is that the controversy about corporate lobbying on this file is making some member states think again.
Industry lobbyists are spending millions of euros to influence an upcoming EU decision on labelling titanium dioxide – found in everyday products like sunscreen – a “suspected carcinogen”. The lobbying is led by an unregistered trade association and a public relations consultancy; nonetheless, they appear to have the ear of member states and the European Commission.
The European Commission’s shocking leaked proposal for ”better regulation” would create pro-business bureaucratic mechanisms to prevent new laws - from regulating chemicals to preventing climate change - that could hurt the bottom line of corporations. Add TTIP and its 'regulatory co-operation' and US companies get in on the act too, with extra privileges.