Biocides Unpacked: Staying Ahead of Regulatory Change

Natalie Konings is a Partner in the Brussels office of Bird & Bird. Natalie specialises in biocides regulation. She regularly advises clients on biocidal product authorisations, active substance approvals, labelling requirements, and compliance matters. Natalie is extensively involved in the establishment and running of task forces and consortia under the BPR, providing strategic guidance on data sharing, joint submissions, regulatory strategy, and the negotiation and drafting of consortium agreements and related contractual arrangements. Her practice also encompasses the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH), as well as the chemical regulatory aspects of cosmetics, medical devices, pharmaceutical and other products. Additionally, Natalie is often involved in litigation and represents clients before arbitration instances, as well as in ECHA Board of Appeal cases, including disputes arising from consortium agreements and data-sharing arrangements.

Claudio Mereu is a Partner in the Brussels office of Bird & Bird. With over 26 years’ experience, Claudio focuses on EU regulatory law with an emphasis on chemicals (REACH/CLP) and biocides, as well as other related consumer, professional and industrial goods (cosmetics, medical devices, etc.). His practice can be divided into three main streams: advisory, advocacy and litigation at both EU and national levels. This includes assisting clients in navigating the EU regulatory landscape, policies and compliance requirements across various sectors. Claudio also provides advocacy support to clients, engaging with EU and Member State policymakers and government officials, working in partnership with the EU Focus Group to provide input on public consultations and product-related decisions and restrictions. He also has a very active litigation practice both domestically and internationally, having defended over 40 cases before the EU courts.