Small biocides companies face uncertain fate
Cost and complexity of European law hampers innovation and excludes SMEs
Biocides are among the most tightly regulated groups of chemicals in Europe. After all, anything designed to kill or deter microorganisms could pose a danger to the environment or human health. But companies are warning that strict EU law, aimed at ensuring the disinfectants, preservatives and pest control chemicals we use are safe, has an unwanted side-effect. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) cannot cope and are leaving the market, with potentially drastic consequences for the sector.