Expanding the Concawe REACH inventory: integration of renewable fuel substances

Concawe Review 33.2 Special REACH Edition - Article 5

The European Fuel Manufacturers Association (EFMA), through its scientific division Concawe, has responded to the evolving landscape of energy and climate policy by expanding its scope to encompass the scientific study of renewable liquid fuel substances. This article presents an in-depth review of the strategic rationale, scientific challenges and practical implementation of integrating these novel substances into the Concawe REACH portfolio. This includes the justification for expanding regulatory responsibility beyond traditional fossil-derived hydrocarbons, and a comprehensive discussion on the scientific methodologies employed to support read-across and hazard assessment of substances with complex and variable compositions. Drawing on recent experience with the integration of eight new renewable and co-processed substances, the review offers insights into Concawe’s evolving regulatory strategy and the scientific rigour required to underpin REACH compliance in a future-oriented fuels sector.