It is necessary to update the European strategy in question. Today there are many innovative alternatives to many ingredients that in certain cases are classified as substances of very high concern, and there should be careful consideration of phasing out some of the most dangerous ones. At the same time, this is a very delicate exercise, because the unique characteristics of some products derive from specific chemical ingredients, whose replacement does not give the same results. There are a lot of SMEs working in the value chain of many sectors and we would be wise not to impose overly strict measures that could end up being unrealistic in several cases.
I voted in favour of this resolution, but I would have preferred a more cautious text. The debate will continue at the end of this year, when the Commission will launch the new strategy and the Parliament will have another chance to express its concerns. It is very important in this update not to hinder research and innovation that are fundamental to finding alternatives to many substances that the resolution would want to see phased out as soon as possible.