Substitution of Hazardous Chemicals

Substitution of hazardous chemicals is the replacement of hazardous substances in products and processes by less hazardous or non-hazardous substances. The goal of substitution is functional equivalence. The product or process should have the same functionality by less hazardous means.

One of the major challenges lies in achieving substitution without increasing energy use. When volatile solvents are replaced by less volatile and non-hazardous solvents such as water, more energy is often required for mechanical work in order to achieve the same result. Because energy is becoming a more expensive resource, there will be more incentive to develop solutions that combine the dual purpose of avoiding hazardous chemicals and saving energy.

The area of substitution has been developing in Denmark for more than 20 years. Danish companies have worked with authorities for many years to establish a knowledge base on the best practices for substitution. The public focus on substitution has increased markedly during the last ten years because of more knowledge of the adverse effects of hazardous chemicals on humans and the environment - and because chemical products have moved increasingly from industry into the household.