IN THIS ISSUE
• Press release to be distributed
WELCOME
To our most recent update from ECA Industry Association!
As we, as an industry, move through the BPR regulatory process, many of us have identified the need for an industry association so that our views and concerns can be represented at the highest levels. Today we have better chances to influence than ever earlier. In order to do our influencing work, we have outlined a press release related to ethanol. Please do translate the press release to your own language and distribute it in your own channels.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
ECA Industry Association Warns: Prepare Now for a Future Without Ethanol in Key Applications
Helsinki, June 1, 2025 – The Electrochemical Activation (ECA) Industry Association today issued a call to action to all sectors reliant on ethanol-based products, following regulatory developments indicating that ethanol may soon face significant usage restrictions—or even a ban—in several biocidal and disinfectant applications under the EU Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR).
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has formally identified ethanol as meeting exclusion criteria due to its classification as a substance potentially carcinogenic and toxic to reproduction (Category 1A/1B). This puts ethanol at risk of substitution and eventual phase-out from multiple use cases where safer, viable alternatives exist.
Transition Is No Longer Optional — It’s Urgent
Industries including healthcare, food service, consumer goods, and public hygiene that depend heavily on ethanol-based formulations must begin evaluating and transitioning to alternative technologies. Waiting for a regulatory deadline could expose companies to operational disruptions, cost inflation, and loss of regulatory compliance.
“The science is clear, and the regulatory signals are stronger than ever. Ethanol’s days as a default disinfectant are likely numbered in the EU,” said Ville Sarja, Chair of the ECA Industry Association. “We strongly urge all affected sectors to prepare now. Viable and scalable alternatives like hypochlorous acid (HOCl) already exist, offering broad-spectrum efficacy, safety, and sustainability.”
Hypochlorous Acid: A Safer, Compliant Future
HOCl is a naturally occurring, fast-acting antimicrobial agent that has demonstrated effectiveness across a wide range of pathogens. Already approved for use in many biocidal product types and supported by a growing number of industrial players, HOCl represents a sustainable and human-friendly alternative that aligns with Europe’s Green Deal goals and the Chemical Strategy for Sustainability.
The ECA Industry Association and its members are actively investing in:
• Scalable HOCl manufacturing solutions for industrial and institutional applications
• Education and technical support for transitioning formulations
• Regulatory guidance to help businesses remain compliant across EU and UK markets
Industry Must Act Proactively
Companies are advised to conduct portfolio risk assessments, initiate reformulation projects, and engage with suppliers and regulatory experts without delay. Early movers will benefit from cost efficiencies, reduced regulatory risks, and stronger ESG positioning.
The ECA Industry Association remains committed to supporting the transition to safe and sustainable biocidal solutions. A future without ethanol in critical applications is no longer hypothetical — it is rapidly approaching.
About ECA Industry Association
The ECA Industry Association represents leading manufacturers and innovators of hypochlorous acid (HOCl). Our mission is to advocate for safe, science-backed, and environmentally responsible solutions that meet the evolving needs of public health, industry, and regulatory frameworks.
Media Contact:
Ville Sarja
Chairman
ECA Industry Association
Email: info@eca-industry.org
Phone: +358 50 3030 573
Thank you for taking time to read our press release and to distribute it further.
On behalf of the ECA Industry Association board,
Ville Sarja, Chairman