August 7, 2006

The Department of Environmental Quality and the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production are helping Michigan companies prepare for new standards in chemical management by presenting the Chemicals Policy Training on Registration, Evaluation, and Authorization of Chemicals (REACH). The workshop will take place at the Metropolitan Hotel (formerly the Doubletree Hotel) in Romulus on September 12th.

REACH is the proposed overhaul of the European chemicals management system due to be in place in 2007 that will have important implications for Michigan companies exporting to Europe. Workshop participants will learn about the key features of REACH and have a chance to ask experts how REACH will affect their companies. The workshop will also cover the Globally Harmonized System for the Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, which will be integrated into REACH; tools for more sustainable chemicals management, product design, and green chemistry; and how businesses can turn REACH from a challenge to an opportunity. Attendees will receive a database of tools and resources to help them make informed decisions about chemicals and alternatives.

Andrew Fasey, one of the key authors of REACH and the GHS, will be the lead trainer in the workshop, along with LCSP senior staff. The registration fee for this training is $100, which includes continental breakfast, lunch, and conference materials.

The complete conference agenda and registration information are available online at http://www.chemicalspolicy.org/registration.shtml, scroll down to “September 12, 2006 – Detroit, Michigan” and click on “Registration Form” or “Preliminary Agenda.” For registration information, contact Yve Torrie at 978-934-3121.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised August 7, 2006 by Pat Watson