Brussels, 27/05/2002 (Agence Europe) - On 21 May, the EU Council formally adopted the directive restricting the marketing and use of short chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCP). SCCP are classed as dangerous for the environment because of their considerable toxicity for aquatic organisms and the harmful long-term effects that they can have on the aquatic environment. As soon as the directive takes effect, the alkanes C10-C13, chloro (SCCP), will no longer be able to be marketed as substances or components of other substances or preparations at concentrations above 1% for the machining of metals and greasing of leather. Finally, before 1 January 2003, all remaining uses of SCCP will be reviewed by the Commission, in cooperation with the Member States and the OSPAR Committee, in the light of any new relevant scientific data concerning risks presented by SCCP for health and the environment. The European Parliament will be kept informed of the results of this review.