PARC has published a milestone report outlining how innovation in chemicals and materials currently includes safety and sustainability assessment, supporting the implementation of Safe and Sustainable by Design by considering to how and to what extent safety and sustainability are already implemented.

The work contributes to the broader Safe-and Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) approach, which aims to embed safety, environmental protection and circularity considerations into innovation from the outset. Strengthening links between innovators and assessment experts is identified as a key step to achieving this goal.

Within the Concepts and Toolboxes area of the European Partnership for the Assessment of Risks from Chemicals (PARC), activities focused on Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) are advancing the development of a toolbox to support industry and regulators in innovation processes. This milestone represents an important step toward that goal.

The report explores methodologies, challenges and opportunities for integrating assessment approaches earlier in the development of chemicals and materials, helping ensure that innovation aligns with regulatory expectations and societal needs.

By analysing existing company frameworks and identifying gaps, the report highlights how the implementation of SSbD can be strengthened by supporting more efficient research and development pathways while reducing risks for human health and the environment.

Jaco Westra, PARC SSbD Co-lead, said:

Integrating safety and sustainability considerations early in innovation is essential to ensure that new chemicals and materials are both effective and safe for society and the environment. By aligning scientific development with safety-driven frameworks and making use of the innovation expertise in industry, we can accelerate innovation while strengthening protection of health and the environment.

The report is intended for policymakers, risk assessors, scientists and innovators seeking practical guidance on how to operationalise safety and sustainability alongside technological development. It also supports PARC’s wider mission to advance next-generation risk assessment and promote safer chemicals management across Europe.

Explore the SSbD Knowledge Sharing Portal and the Safe and sustainable by design toolbox.