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EEA Corporate document No 2/2018

This report draws upon presentations and discussions that took place at a seminar held by the European Environment Agency's (EEA's) Scientific Committee on 17 May 2017.

EN PDF: TH-AL-18-001-EN-N - ISBN: 978-92-9213-936-0 - ISSN: 1725-8449 - doi: 10.2800/92493

Key messages

  • Chemical production is increasing and poses risks to ecosystems and human health
  • European legislation has reduced acute pollution, but chronic, less apparent effects persist
  • Environmental and societal megatrends are changing exposure patterns
  • Chemical risks are traditionally underestimated by science
  • Green and sustainable chemistry requires targeted innovation
  • A focus on critical parameters is more important than gathering more general data
  • Monitoring for a wider variety of chemicals can provide earlier warnings
  • Policy approaches need to be further integrated in support of sustainability objectives
  • Avoiding upstream use of persistent and hazardous chemicals is key
  • A less toxic environment requires visionary and inclusive stakeholder approaches
  • The EEA Scientific Committee, composed of independent scientists, assists the EEA Management Board and the Executive Director in providing advice on scientific matters.