Articles from Science for Environment Policy

Indicators for evaluating responsible chemicals management developed
A new study has developed a set of indicators to evaluate how well companies voluntarily manage dangerous chemicals. These indicators can be used to check progress towards the World Summit on Sustainable Development goal of effectively managing chemicals. Download article (PDF)

Water safety: adding phosphate reduces both lead and copper
Phosphate is added to domestic drinking water to reduce lead levels in the UK, to help meet EU Drinking Water Directive standards. New research has now found that phosphate can also reduce the amount of copper in domestic sewage by more than a third. This method could help Member States meet forthcoming 'safe' levels for water discharged to the environment, under forthcoming EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) proposals. Download article (PDF)

Plastic components of WEEE contain hazardous substances
A report has revealed that the plastic components of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) can contain significant amounts of hazardous substances, such as lead, mercury or certain flame retardants. The findings suggest that the plastics from some types of WEEE need to be treated as hazardous waste by waste managers and recyclers. Download article (PDF)

Simple re-seeding projects can triple grassland biodiversity
Researchers have recommended new, improved ways of increasing the ecological value of European grasslands. Plant diversity - or species richness - can be increased by a factor of three through sowing grass and wildflower seed mixtures, together with a carefully controlled plan for animal grazing. Download article (PDF)

Antarctica needs global and local responses to protect ecosystems
A new study has investigated the impacts of human activity on Antarctic marine ecosystems. Alongside local effects of fishing, pollution and invasive alien species, global climate change is causing sea temperature rises and ocean acidification. Action is therefore needed at all levels to address these impacts. Download article (PDF)