South Korea approves new exemption from registration criteria for chemicals recycled from waste.

On July 2, 2024, the Korean Ministry of Environment approved a partial revision of the Enforcement Decree of the Act on the Registration and Evaluation of Chemical Substances. From October 10, 2024, chemicals produced by recycling waste will be exempt from registration. This revision aims to eliminate legal uncertainty regarding the registration of recycled chemicals. 

Conditions for Exemptions 

Previously, the recycling industry faced challenges in proving that a manufactured chemical was identical to a chemical already registered in the same supply chain before it became waste. The amendment now includes waste recycled chemicals in the list of exemptions, provided certain conditions are met: 

- Three-Year Gap: The substance must have been registered at least three years ago. 

- Weight Range: It must fall within the weight range of the previously registered chemical. 

- Data Submission: If the previously registered substance is categorized as an intermediate and data submission was omitted, the exemption applies. 

Applicants seeking exemption can submit their confirmation to the Korea Environment Corporation through the Chemical Information Processing System. 

Additional Clarifications and Industry Impact 

Additionally, the revision clarifies the fee collection for the use of hazard test data and aims to reduce the registration burden for the recycling industry. Hwang Kye-young, director of the Environmental Health Department, emphasized the importance of proper waste recycling and chemical safety management.