The annual workshop of the work package focused on innovation in regulatory risk assessment, led by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment ↗ in the Netherlands and Swedish Chemicals Agency ↗, took place between 22-24 April in Stockholm at the Karolinska Institute ↗. This event provided a great platform for scientific advancements to intersect with regulatory science, fostering engaging discussions and strengthening collaborations to enhance chemical risk assessment practices.  

The workshop contributed significantly to regulatory science. One major focus was promoting the regulatory use of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). Dedicated discussions explored how these new methods can be practically implemented in regulatory decision-making processes. Participants identified barriers to adopting these methodologies and discussed potential solutions, as well as the requirements that NAMs should fulfil for regulatory use. These discussions highlighted opportunities for PARC to support the adoption of innovative methodologies, and thereby advancing regulatory science. Another key area was structured evaluation and weight-of-evidence approaches. During the sessions it was highlighted the importance of applying systematic frameworks to regulatory risk assessment. Participants were encouraged to refine existing approaches and enhance transparency in assessing human relevance and data integration, which will improve the reliability of regulatory decisions.

The workshop also addressed regulatory needs related to the risk assessment of chemical mixture. Breakout sessions concluded on the relevance of stakeholder engagement as well as the dialogue with the European Agencies and regulators to manage the risks posed by chemical mixtures. Identifying chemicals and their applications, known as 'risk drivers’, is crucial for effective risk management. Furthermore, discussions highlighted the need to consider socio-economic and health impacts of exposure to chemical mixtures. Collaboration and knowledge exchange were strongly promoted throughout the event.  The workshop brought together experts from various disciplines to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and collaborate on advancing regulatory science. By fostering a collaborative environment where stakeholders could brainstorm ideas, identify research gaps, and propose new projects, the workshop has encouraged active participation in shaping the future of regulatory science.

Overall, this annual workshop has served as a catalyst for driving innovation, promoting best practices, and integrating better scientific advancements into regulatory decision-making processes. By facilitating discussions that bridge science and regulation, participants have contributed meaningfully to the evolution of regulatory science and the improvement of chemical risk assessment practices.

For detailed insights into this workshop's regulatory science discussions, please click here.

For further information, please contact the co-leaders of the work package 6 “Innovation in regulatory risk assessment”.