In a world constantly shaken by geopolitical uncertainties and climate-related disasters, we must not lose focus on the continuous need to prevent the spread of disease to avoid another pandemic. Europe’s economy and the public health of its populations do not need to deal with such a challenge again so soon.
Five years ago, the world needed alcohol more than ever. The rapid spread of COVID-19 highlighted the role of infection control and the importance of ethanol was unquestionable. Ethanol is a vital ingredient applied in daily use in products such as hand and surface disinfectants for healthcare, the food chain and multiple other industries that we depend on. Let’s not forget the hard-learnt lessons so quickly.
Recent discussions surrounding ethanol’s possible reclassification have sparked concern, not only among experts and industry, but also in the European Parliament. The risk of ethanol’s reclassification as a carcinogen or reprotoxic (a “CMR” classification) chemical would lead to a de facto ban on its use. The impact on public health and society in general cannot be underestimated.
Leading the call for a more balanced approach is Christine Singer MEP, who has stepped forward to question the scientific and policy basis for this potential shift. In a written question addressed to the European Commission signed by 27 MEPs, the European Parliament raised serious concerns about the downstream impacts that restricting ethanol could have on public health, hygiene standards and European manufacturing. The European Parliament’s intervention urges the Commission to ensure that any regulatory changes are based on robust evidence and reflect real-world use, not only theoretical hazards.
“A ban on ethanol in detergents would be a massive setback – for product safety, innovation, and sustainability”
MEP Christine Singer
“A ban on ethanol in detergents would be a massive setback – for product safety, innovation, and sustainability,” says MEP Christine Singer. “Ethanol performs important functions such as stabilising and sanitising formulations. Instead of blanket and undifferentiated bans, we need a fact-based discussion and intelligent solutions that protect both consumers and the environment."
The potential classification could result in a de facto ban on its use in disinfectants, detergents and cleaning products and could have far-reaching consequences, not only for the detergent industry but also for multiple other sectors.
To bring wider political attention to the issue, MEP Singer jointly with A.I.S.E., the European association representing cleaning, maintenance and disinfection products, is hosting a high-level debate on 20 May in the European Parliament. The event will bring together EU policymakers, industry experts and healthcare professionals – together, the debate will explore the importance of ethanol’s applications and its unparalleled broad-spectrum disinfection capabilities that apply to our daily lives at home and in a multitude of industrial processes.
“The purpose of the event,” MEP Singer adds, “is to bring together experts to objectively understand the consequences of a ban on the environment, the economy and consumers and find a better way forward”.
Find find out more and join the dinner debate on the 20th May visit here
Disinfection saves lives and is a challenging task, balancing efficacy, performance and sustainability. We must not underrate this complexity, writes Alexis Van Maercke, Director-General, A.I.S.E
Ethanol, a versatile and essential ingredient, plays a pivotal role in the detergents industry and in many other industries, particularly for its disinfecting properties. Its effectiveness and broad-spectrum capabilities make it indispensable in combatting a wide range of organisms, including bacteria and non-enveloped viruses like polio. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ethanol emerged as the primary ingredient in fighting SARS-CoV-2 due to its availability and efficacy.
Key characteristics of ethanol
- Broad-spectrum efficacy: Ethanol is unmatched in its ability to combat a wide array of organisms. It was the top choice during the COVID-19 pandemic for its effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2.
- Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs): Ethanol is the most effective and readily available disinfectant against HAIs, which cause 90,000 deaths annually in the EU and cost the region €7 billion per year.
- Versatility in use: Ethanol is crucial in disinfecting products used at home, in hospitals and in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Its role in infection prevention and control is vital.
- Environmental safety: Ethanol is primarily derived from renewable sources and is fully biodegradable. It leaves no residue on surfaces, evaporates quickly, and is generally more sustainable than other options.
- Lack of viable alternatives: No other substance matches ethanol’s efficacy in infection control. Alternatives like propanol are less effective and harsher on the skin. Ethanol is also irreplaceable in the pharmaceutical and food/fragrance sectors for extracting flavours and fragrances and active substances of natural origin.
- Versatility beyond disinfectants: Ethanol serves as an important carrier, solvent and preservative. Changes to its classification under the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) could have far-reaching effects on non-biocidal products containing ethanol, such as surface cleaners, air fresheners, cosmetics, medical devices, and medicinal products.
Ethanol-based biocides have been used safely in healthcare, food, life sciences, and hospitality industries for many years. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends ethanol-based hand sanitisers as the gold standard for hand hygiene in healthcare. In March 2020, WHO launched the “Safe Hands Challenge,” widely promoting the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers to combat COVID-19.
Reclassifying ethanol: One substance, two assessments
Ethanol is currently under assessment under the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) and the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation (CLP). Authorities have indicated their intention to classify ethanol as toxic to reproduction and carcinogenic.
Reclassifying ethanol would have massive consequences for European industry and society, without bringing any benefit to human health or the environment. Even with derogations, the availability of ethanol would be severely restricted due to local regulations. Authorities would face numerous unintended consequences, including changes in infection patterns and higher costs.
A.I.S.E. is calling on European authorities to recognise the essential role of ethanol. Ethanol should be classified based on its real-world, biocidal use, rather than being inaccurately compared to alcohol consumption. Recognising ethanol’s role in infection control and public health is crucial for maintaining effective and safe disinfecting practices.
The European Commission should fully assess the consequences of reclassifying ethanol on public health, healthcare costs and economic stability. A thorough impact assessment will provide a clear understanding of the potential ramifications and guide informed decisions.
By avoiding an unjustified reclassification, the European Commission can demonstrate its commitment to simplifying legislation and supporting EU competitiveness, ensuring that regulations positively impact both people and industry.
For more information visit www.aise.eu/ethanol
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