In today’s complex regulatory environment, navigating policy changes and advocating for your industry’s interests requires a strategic and experienced partner.
Kellen’s Public Affairs team worked closely with trade associations and professional societies like the Council for LAB/LAS Environmental Research (CLER) to:
- Develop powerful advocacy strategies.
- Raise awareness for our clients’ initiatives.
- Identify key stakeholders and establish partnerships.
- Craft compelling messaging and communication plans.
- Organize impactful events and campaigns.
With a proven track record of representing the missions of over 120 organizations worldwide, our team brings extensive experience advocating across legislative, regulatory, and rule-making bodies at all levels: state, federal, and international.
The Challenge
In 2023, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) proposed a new rule called the “Mixture Assessment Factor” (MAF). This rule would have added a significant and costly step to the existing chemical safety assessment process for all cleaning products containing linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LABS) and linear alkyl ethoxylate sulfates (LAS).
Kellen’s Strategic Response
Kellen partnered with CLER to challenge the MAF proposal. We identified key concerns:
- Lack of Scientific Basis: The scientific justification for the MAF applied to LABS and LAS was unclear.
- Economic Impact: Implementing the MAF would have imposed a significant financial burden on the cleaning product industry without a clear safety benefit.
A Collaborative Approach
Kellen supported CLER in a multi-pronged approach:
- Scientific Critique: CLER published critiques of the MAF in its online journal, highlighting the lack of scientific evidence.
- Industry Collaboration: CLER funded a presentation by an independent scientist at a European research association workshop, raising industry awareness of the issue.
- Conference Participation: CLER presented its concerns about the MAF at a European science conference.
The Outcome
Thanks to CLER’s strong arguments and Kellen’s strategic support, ECHA postponed the implementation of the MAF for LABS and LAS in 2024. While the future of the proposal remains uncertain, this delay provides CLER and the cleaning product industry valuable time to continue advocating for a science-based regulatory approach.
This case study demonstrates the power of strategic advocacy, scientific collaboration, and expert guidance in influencing regulatory decisions. Kellen’s Public Affairs team is committed to helping our clients navigate complex regulatory challenges and achieve positive outcomes.
