The body of EU chemicals legislation has evolved since the 1960s, producing the largest knowledge base on chemicals worldwide.

Like any evolving system, however, it has become increasingly diverse and complex, resulting in inefficiencies and potential inconsistencies.

In the light of the EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, it is therefore timely and reasonable to consider how aspects of the system could be simplified and streamlined, without losing the hard-earned benefits to human health and the environment.

In this commentary, we propose a conceptual framework that could be the basis of Chemicals 2.0 – a future safety assessment and management approach that is based on the application of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), mechanistic reasoning and cost-benefit considerations.