Keeping it clean: How to protect the circular economy from hazardous substances

The idea of a ‘circular economy’ has emerged as a possible solution to the over-exploitation of the natural resources of our planet. In December 2015, the EU set as a priority the transition to such a model in its EU Action Plan, and has announced that an “analysis and policy options to address the interface between chemicals, products and waste legislation, including how to reduce the presence and improve the tracking of chemicals of concern in products” will be
carried out in 2017.

This report was prepared to contribute to this initiative and ensure that it aims to enhance the protection of human health and the environment in line with the Council of the European Union’s recent conclusions on the sound management of chemicals.