Regulatory Review – July 2026
This digest provides an overview of some of the latest regulatory news announcements of interest to the SETAC community. Please send your suggestions to [email protected].
Australian Government
Australia launches the National Environmental Protection Agency (National EPA).
Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water amended the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management (IChEMS) Register to add several industrial chemicals and chemical classes. The new entries and associated management requirements take effect on 1 January 2027.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC)
Canada’s “Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations” took effect on 30 June. The regulations further restrict the manufacture, use, sale and import of PFOS, PFOA, long-chain PFCAs, HBCD and PBDEs, and introduce prohibitions on Dechlorane Plus and DBDPE, subject to limited exemptions.
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
ECHA identifies new priorities for regulatory science research:
- Environmental impacts of chemicals at the ecosystem level
- Mobility of persistent substances in water systems
- Resistance to biocides and harmonized methods for risk assessment
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
EFSA issues a call for data on acetaldehyde. Data submissions are due by 31 December 2027.
New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
New Zealand EPA is proposing a ban on fenthion and propoxur insecticides used to treat fleas on pets and for household and commercial pest control. Comments are accepted until 26 August.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)
USEPA proposes extending the compliance deadline for PFOA and PFOS drinking water standards. The proposal would allow eligible public water systems to request an extension until 2031. Public comments are due by 20 July.
USEPA releases draft guidance on reducing risks from PFOA and PFOS in biosolids. The guidance is intended to help wastewater utilities, landowners and the public reduce potential exposure to PFAS in biosolids. Comment period ends on 4 September.
USEPA seeks public input on a potential new regulatory approach for certain coal combustion residuals (CCR). Comments are due by 13 October.
Contact: [email protected]