Connecting the dots
Integrating the 'essential-use' concept in the chemical management framework of a product system
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 6454850 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Ravina Aggarwal (0000-0002-3000-8893, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 9 |
| Pages | 100744-100744 |
| Publication date | 2025-05-25 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Sustainable Futures (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2666-1888 |
| Publisher | Elsevier BV (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1016/j.sftr.2025.100744 |
| OpenAlex | W4410720442 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 53 |
This study explores the essential-use concept within a broader chemical management framework for a product system, aimed at phasing out non-essential chemical uses. This concept mandates the elimination of all non-essential applications of chemicals of concern unless their use is crucial for health, safety, or societal functioning, and no technically and economically viable, non-regrettable alternatives available. This study traces the evolution of the essential-use concept and its current implications in chemical management, aiming to understand its applicability. By translating technical terminologies into a more understandable language, this study seeks to bridge the knowledge gap between specialists and the public, enhancing grassroots-level acceptance of the concept in product system chemical evaluation. It addresses the subjective nature of defining the essential-use concept and examining the inherent contradictions society faces in aligning it with safe uses to protect both human health and the environment. It also introduces complementary concepts to essential-use in chemical management, supporting the discussion with the development of a holistic chemical management framework for a product system. This framework incorporates the essential-use application in a way that makes the concept more easily comprehensible. The developed framework provides a systematic process for managing chemicals within a product system, simplifying chemical management at the product level until the product is deemed safe for use. This study also emphasizes the need for further research on how the essential-use concept can effectively guide the phase-out of harmful substances through grouping and prioritization, considering various perspectives and uncertainties. This is crucial for informed decision-making and promoting sustainable chemical use by eliminating non-essential chemical uses within product systems
Business · Knowledge management · New product development · Process management · Product (mathematics · Systems engineering · Chemistry and Chemical Engineering · Computer Science · Engineering · Mathematics · Sustainable Industrial Ecology · Sustainable Supply Chain Management · Marketing
The Lancet Commission on pollution and health
Planetary boundaries
The Concept of Essential Use
The role of chemical policy in improving supply chain knowledge and product safety
Creating safer consumer products
Comparing precaution in the United States and Europe
Beyond the circle of poison
Risk Assessment in the Policy-Making Process
Planetary Boundaries
Producing Ignorance Through Regulatory Structure
| Highly cited | No |
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