Eskilstuna appeals permit for dangerous chemical
Eskilstuna municipality has appealed a permit allowing a local company to use the dangerous chemical methylene chloride, despite an EU ban. The substance is linked to serious health risks including cancer. The municipality held a press conference to discuss the matter and its objections.
Eskilstuna municipality has formally appealed the Swedish Chemicals Agency's decision granting the company Scanlabel a permit to use methylene chloride in its production. The chemical, banned in the EU since 2020 due to its carcinogenic properties and other health risks, is used to remove printing ink from printing plates. The exemption is valid until 2025 and allows up to 10 tons per year.
The appeal was filed with the Administrative Court in Linköping on October 17. The municipality argues that there are insufficient reasons for the exemption, citing risks to workers and the public. During a press conference on Wednesday, October 18, municipal councilor Jimmy Jansson (S) emphasized the position: "We believe there are not sufficient reasons for the exemption. The health risks are too great." The press conference was organized by the municipality to inform media and residents, with experts from the environmental office participating to explain the chemical as acutely toxic and harmful to the nervous system.
The background is that Scanlabel, a printing company in Eskilstuna, applied for the exemption because they had not found an equally effective alternative. The Chemicals Agency approved the application after assessing that risks could be managed with protective measures. However, neighbors and environmental groups have expressed concerns over emissions and exposure. The municipality stresses that the EU's REACH regulation prioritizes human health over industrial convenience.
The case highlights the tension between local industry and environmental protection in Sweden. If the appeal succeeds, the exemption could be revoked, forcing the company to seek alternatives. The Administrative Court is expected to handle the case within a few months.