European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of Chemicals

European scientific organization focusing on ecotoxicology and toxicology of chemicals

ECETOC logo

The European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of Chemicals (ECETOC) is a scientific, non-profit association that provides a collaborative platform for the development and dissemination of knowledge in the fields of ecotoxicology and toxicology. Established in 1978, ECETOC is based in Brussels, Belgium, and serves as a key resource for industry, academia, and regulatory bodies in Europe and beyond.

Mission and Objectives

ECETOC's mission is to promote the responsible use of chemicals by advancing scientific understanding of their potential impacts on human health and the environment. The organization aims to:

• Facilitate the development of scientifically sound methods for assessing the risks of chemicals.
• Provide a forum for the exchange of information and ideas among scientists from industry, academia, and government.
• Support the development of regulatory policies that are based on robust scientific evidence.

Activities

ECETOC conducts a variety of activities to fulfill its mission, including:

Workshops and Symposia

ECETOC organizes workshops and symposia that bring together experts from various fields to discuss current issues in ecotoxicology and toxicology. These events provide opportunities for networking and collaboration among scientists.

Task Forces

The organization establishes task forces composed of experts who work on specific scientific issues. These task forces produce reports and publications that contribute to the scientific literature and inform regulatory decision-making.

Publications

ECETOC publishes a range of documents, including technical reports, guidance documents, and position papers. These publications are widely used by scientists and policymakers to inform their work on chemical safety.

Structure

ECETOC is governed by a Board of Directors, which is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organization. The Board is composed of representatives from member companies, which include major chemical manufacturers and other stakeholders in the chemical industry.

The scientific work of ECETOC is overseen by the Scientific Committee, which is responsible for ensuring the quality and relevance of the organization's activities. The Scientific Committee is composed of experts from various disciplines related to ecotoxicology and toxicology.

Membership

Membership in ECETOC is open to companies and organizations involved in the manufacture, use, or regulation of chemicals. Members benefit from access to ECETOC's scientific resources and the opportunity to participate in its activities.

Impact

ECETOC has played a significant role in advancing the science of ecotoxicology and toxicology. Its work has contributed to the development of more effective methods for assessing the risks of chemicals and has informed regulatory policies in Europe and around the world.

Related pages

• Ecotoxicology
• Toxicology
• Chemical safety
• Risk assessment