On Thursday 16 October, the Chemical Industries Association, in partnership with Steptoe LLP, hosted the second annual UK Chemicals Conference in Manchester. The event brought together representatives from industry, government and law to explore the key issues shaping the future of chemicals management in the UK.

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Building on the success of last year’s event, this year’s conference saw a significant increase in attendance and strong engagement throughout the day. Coverage from ENDS reflected the quality of debate and the importance of the topics discussed.

Speakers from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Health and Safety Executive, the Environment Agency and the First-tier Tribunal joined experts from across the sector to discuss developments in UK REACH, PFAS regulation and litigation, and the wider regulatory landscape. Sessions focused on the future direction of policy, practical compliance solutions and opportunities for collaboration between regulators and industry.

The CIA delivered the keynote address, introducing our Project 2035 work and highlighting the growth enablers needed to support a competitive and sustainable chemicals sector.

Across four sessions, delegates heard from a wide range of expert speakers, including:

  • Tom Gillett (Steptoe), Silvia Segna (CIA), Neil Hollis (BASF) and Darren Abrahams (Steptoe) on the evolving framework of UK REACH
  • Elodie Brière (Steptoe), Cecile Brich (Defra), Judge Kathryn Saward (General Regulatory Chamber) and Alison Thornber-Barwick (The Lubrizol Corporation) on the chemical regulation ecosystem
  • Edward Latter (Defra), Anthony Hopp (Steptoe) and Zanda Romata (Steptoe) on the UK’s approach to PFAS regulation and litigation
  • Leo McDaid (HSE), Dr Pierre Cruse (HSE), Viola Whittaker (Croda Europe Ltd) and Tom Gillett (Steptoe) on what lies ahead for UK chemicals regulation beyond REACH

The day concluded with lively discussion and a shared sense of purpose about the future of the UK chemicals industry.

We would like to thank all speakers, partners and attendees for their contribution to another successful event. The CIA looks forward to continuing these important conversations as we work together to shape a thriving and sustainable future for UK chemicals.

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