ZVO and VECCO criticize planned EU chromium(VI) limits
On May 18, 2026, ZVO and VECCO held a joint discussion with representatives of the European Commission on the current chromium(VI) restriction proposal of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and reiterated their criticism of the unrealistic chromium(VI) limit values.
Representatives from DG GROW, DG ENVI and DG EMPL took part in the meeting with the European Commission. The aim of the exchange was to introduce the perspective of industrial practice into the ongoing European discussions on the future regulation of chromium(VI) substances. ZVO and VECCO once again made it clear that the reduction of the limit value to 0.1 micrograms per cubic meter of exhaust air proposed by the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) is not realistically feasible from a technical and economic perspective. The associations underpinned their position with concrete practical data and empirical values from surface technology companies. During the discussion, it was made clear that even the most modern system and filter technology is often unable to reliably achieve these values in industrial reality in the long term. A corresponding regulation would therefore have a considerable impact on industrial production processes, investments and the competitiveness of European companies.
Constructive exchange with the EU Commission
At the same time, ZVO and VECCO pointed out that surface technology companies are already working under strict environmental, occupational health and safety regulations and have established extensive technical protective measures. The industry has been continuously investing in emission reduction, occupational health and safety and plant safety for years. The talks with the representatives of the European Commission were open and constructive. On some points, they signaled understanding for the technical and economic challenges presented and announced their intention to examine certain aspects more closely. On other points, however, the positions remained divergent. The ZVO will continue to closely follow the European process together with the VECCO and will continue to advocate science-based, proportionate and industry-compatible regulation. The aim remains to reconcile health and environmental protection with industrial competitiveness and technological reality.
Contact details and information on the companies and institutions presented here can be found in our interactive surface technology industry directory.