Methodology: Guide on sustainable chemicals A decision tool for substance manufacturers, formulators and end users of chemicals
This step-by-step guide guides companies in the process of selecting sustainable chemicals and using chemicals more sustainably. It supports companies with the:
- Integration of aspects of sustainability in their selection and the way chemicals (substances and mixtures) are used along their lifecycle by providing measurable sustainability criteria
- Identification & substitution of priority chemicals
- Selection of sustainable chemicals
| SMC Category | Hazard identification and risk assessment, Risk prevention and reduction |
| Subcategories | Hazard identification and chemicals risk assessment, Information and data assessing hazards and risks, Workplace safety assessment, Preventive measures |
| SME Activity | Product development and process design, Handling, Pollution control and disposal, Production, Transportation to and from company |
| Resource Type | Downloadable document |
| Author | German Environment Agency |
| Company type | Synthesis of substances, Formulation of chemicals, Industrial users of chemicals |
| Year | 2011 |
| Link(s) |
http://www.umweltbundesamt.de/publikationen/guide-on-sustainable-chemicals |
How to use it
Inputs
1) Chemical information:
- physico-chemical properties, human toxicity and ecotoxicity from SDS, REACH information, product labels
2) Use-specific information along the life cycle and at the company and the entire supply chain
Outputs
1) Sustainability profile of substances and mixtures in terms of:
- Physio-chemical hazards
- Human toxicity
- Environmental toxicity
- Greenhouse potential
- Resource use
- Origin of raw materials…
2) Emission potential of uses related to:
- Environment
- Workplace, professional users
- Consumers
3) 10 Golden Rules summarising most important principles of sustainable chemicals
| Learning time | High (>8h) |
| User expertise | Intermediate (scientific/engineering degree required/business management experience required) |
| User-friendliness | Not difficult to use |
| Advanced tool | Yes |
| Languages | English, German |