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This article from the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology notes it is not uncommon for so-called green building to meet the highest criteria for energy efficiency and be built with materials that contain chemicals hazardous to occupant health. This journal article provides key examples of how scientists have promoted healthy building practices and highlights additional research opportunities.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are known organic pollutants with adverse health effects on humans and the ecosystem. This paper synthesises literature about the status of the pollutants and their precursors, identifies knowledge gaps and discusses future perspectives on the study of PFASs in Africa.

Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substance (PFAS) contamination has been found in the construction spoil of many major projects, and there is growing concern about the health and environmental implications of these “forever” chemicals. This study highlights the common issues that are associated with the management of PFAS contamination in the construction industry, and proposes a mechanism for improved regulation.

Two international Conventions from the International Labor Organization (ILO; C162 Asbestos Convention) and the UN (Basel Convention) offer governments guidelines for achieving a total asbestos ban policy, but the long-term effect of these Conventions on policy implementation remains unknown. This study assessed data on asbestos bans in 108 countries and confirms that adoption of both the C162 Asbestos Convention and the Basel Convention facilitates countries in moving towards a total asbestos ban.

This review focuses on the world’s first process for producing an aromatic polycarbonate (PC) using CO2 as starting material. The process is an example of green and sustainable chemistry as previous methods of producing PC use not only highly toxic and corrosive phosgene made from CO and Cl2 as a monomer, but also very large amounts of CH2Cl2 and water.

Legislation is not in place in every country to manage chemicals of concern.  The OECD Compare your Country Interactive mapping tool shows where legislation is in place and in development to manage industrial and consumer chemicals. 

The tool also includes a series of country profiles, providing details of legislation, the year of adoption and the approximate number of industrial chemicals assessed per year.

Safer States is an alliance of diverse environmental health organizations and coalitions from across the United States committed to building a healthier world.  The website features an interactive map showing chemical-related policies, including those related to building materials.  A Bill Tracker provides further detail of the action taken by individual states to regulate chemicals, covering PFAS, toxic flame retardants, heavy metals, BPA and phthalates.

Chemicals are essential for the well-being, high living standards and comfort of modern society. They are used in many sectors, including health, energy, mobility and housing.

However, most chemicals have hazardous properties which can harm the environment and human health.

The EU already has sophisticated chemicals laws in place, but global chemicals production is expected to double by 2030. The already widespread use of chemicals will also increase, including in consumer products.

The European Commission published a chemicals strategy for sustainability on 14 October 2020. It is part of the EU’s zero pollution ambition, which is a key commitment of the European Green Deal.