Figure 3 - Proposed framework for SSbD criteria
‣ will revise and expand the scope of the Ecodesign Directive to include nonenergy related products and additional environmental impact categories . 20 In addition , the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability ( CSS ), which is part of the Green Deal ’ s zero pollution ambition , will develop ‘ Safe and Sustainable by Design ’ ( SSbD ) criteria for substances , materials and chemical products and processes . SSbD is defined as “ a pre-market approach that focuses on providing a function ( or service ), while avoiding volumes and chemical properties that may be harmful to human health or the environment ”. There is much anticipation of the SSbD criteria , which are likely to be published by end of 2022 . 21 While the details are yet unknown , a mapping study ordered by the EC provides an initial structure of the criteria ( Figure 3 ). Its requirements will be defined for the whole life cycle of chemicals and will cover environmental , safety and social aspects . It will also build upon available and emerging policy , legislations and related work . 22
The CSS also includes the development of key performance indicators ( KPIs ) that will “ measure the industrial transition towards the production of safe and sustainable chemicals ”. 21 It will therefore provide legally binding criteria and KPIs specifically for the design of chemical substances , products and processes and will support in aligning the understanding of Green and Sustainable Chemistry . Since the measures will apply to all substances and products placed on the EU market , whether manufactured in the EU or imported , the CSS ’ s impact will be global . Regulatory initiatives outside the EU , such as the US Sustainable Chemistry R & D Act , enacted by the US Senate in January 2021 , will accelerate the implementation of Green and Sustainable Chemistry and further understanding of its principles . For example , the R & D Act will include the development of a definition and metrics for sustainable chemistry . The CSS and this Act are initial steps in translating the concepts of
Green and Sustainable Chemistry into a legislative framework . Naturally , this will not solve all of the challenges and it will raise economic and organisational hurdles for industry . Nonetheless , these developments will also offer opportunities for those who embrace the concept .
Risks & opportunities
There are many opinions as to why the principles of Green and Sustainable Chemistry have not yet been fully implemented in the chemical sector . The most common barriers were identified in the early 2000s ( Figure 4 ). Although these have not changed much over more than 15 years , there has been a significant development of the enablers of Green and Sustainable Chemistry . According to a report from the Green Chemistry & Commerce Council , two key elements will drive the implementation at the industrial level : the market and regulatory pressure . 23-26 Significant momentum has been achieved in both , offering
58 SPECIALITY CHEMICALS MAGAZINE ESTABLISHED 1981