Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Defra is responsible for improving and protecting the environment. Our mission is to grow a green economy and sustain thriving rural communities, whilst supporting our world-leading food, farming and fishing industries.

Defra is responsible for a central plank of chemicals regulation in GB, UK REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation & Restriction of Chemicals), which aims to improve the assessment and control of chemical substances and to provide a high level of protection of human health and the environment from the use of chemicals. Defra also leads on regimes implementing international conventions, such as those relating to Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and mercury, and continues to ensure a reduction in harm from pesticides, hazardous wastes and PFAS chemicals (also known as ‘Forever Chemicals’).

Defra works closely with other government departments and agencies, including the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Environment Agency (EA), the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Home Office to deliver a comprehensive programme of chemical management using monitoring, early warning systems and innovative regulation to minimise risk from harmful chemicals, allowing our communities to thrive and encourage the recovery of biodiversity, whilst facilitating a supportive regulatory environment for the chemicals sector.