Czech experts successufully completed a project aimed at improving the management of chemical substances in Georgia

The development project “Capacity building for sound management of chemicals – Implementation of REACH and CLP regulations” in Georgia was successfully completed last year 2022, which was launched at the end of 2017. The project was financed by the Czech Development Agency (CzDA). Czech companies DEKONTA, a.s. and MEDISTYL spol. s r. o. participated in its implementation. The company MEDISTYL had an expert role in the project, as it has extensive experience in the field of chemical legislation. The project arose as a result of the obligations arising from the Association Agreement between Georgia and the European Union. The Czech Republic, through its bilateral cooperation, supported the Georgian partner in transposition of EU requirements for management of chemical substances into national legislation. Namely the EU regulations CLP and REACH, which regulate the classification, labelling, packaging of chemical products and their placing on the market. The aim is to improve the protection of human health and the environment when handling chemical substances in Georgia.

The project comprised mapping of the existing legislation and competences of individual authorities in management of chemical substances in Georgia, elaborating the concept for harmonizing existing legislation with the requirements of the European REACH and CLP regulations, drafting a new Code on chemical substances and mixtures incl. explanatory note, three implementing bylaws and a proposal for a methodology to ensure effective control of obligations arising from the new chemical legislation. Also, expert capacities of national institutions active in chemical management were strengthened through numerous trainings, workshops in Georgia and study tours to the Czech Republic.

On November 22, 2022 in Tbilisi, there was a working presentation and discussion of the Georgian draft Code on chemical substances and mixtures and followed by the workshop for representatives of the state administration, chemical industry and non-governmental organizations was prepared in cooperation with the Czech Embassy and the Georgian project partner – the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture. The working meeting was opened by the Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Solomon Pavliashvili, who appreciated the cooperation with the Czech Republic in the implementation of environmental protection projects and the cooperation with the Czech team. The Czech ambassador to Georgia, Petr Mikyska, emphasized that the implementation of EU legislation is not only a formality, but a real benefit for the people of Georgia. He also valued the outputs of the project, which will support Georgian activities within the framework of the fulfilment of the obligations defined by the Association Agreement between Georgia and the European Union.

This long-term project has been of great benefit to all parties involved and we are delighted to have been able to participate and contribute our expertise. The newly gained experience and knowledge will certainly be reflected in our other future projects.

For the company MEDISTYL spol. s r. o.

Ing. Sabina Fraňková, Ing. Zuzana Asresahegnová, Ph.D.