Preface
The substitution principle is an important environmental principle and a
useful tool in efforts to reduce risks from hazardous chemicals.
According to this principle, anyone who uses dangerous chemicals must evaluate whether they
can achieve the same results using less dangerous substances, without using
chemicals at all, or by using a different method. Under Norwegian law, anyone
who uses chemicals is responsible for preventing pollution and reducing the
risks associated with their use, and must show due care when using products
containing hazardous chemicals.
From 1 January 2000, all enterprises that use chemicals for occupational
purposes are required by law to evaluate the substitution of substances that are
hazardous to health and the environment. The environmental authorities
considered it to be an important step forward that the substitution principle
was laid down as a statutory requirement in the Product Control Act.
This means
that all enterprises must evaluate their use of chemicals and if possible reduce
the risk involved by changing to less hazardous alternatives.
The Norwegian Pollution Control Authority (SFT) has produced information
material to help enterprises to start the substitution process, and you will
find a list under the link “Useful information”.
The Authority drew up these guidelines as a way of helping and encouraging
enterprises to begin the evaluation of the chemicals they use. It describes the
substitution process step by step, emphasising that this is a continual process.
Oslo, June 2000
Ingrid Bjotveit
Director, Department of Industry
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