title: The substitution principle.
abstract: According to the substitution principle, hazardous chemicals should be replaced by less hazardous alternatives. In this paper, the major issues concerning the more precise definition of the principle are analyzed, and a general purpose definition is proposed. It is claimed that the priority between reducing hazard, functionality and economical considerations in the application of the substitution principle is a matter for adjustment in each particular case that cannot be settled beforehand. None of these objectives can have absolute priority over the others, but the substitution principle is aimed at increasing the priority given to the reduction of hazards to human health and the environment. Major methods to promote and implement the principle are summarized, current legislative approaches are discussed, and proposals for efficient implementation are made. It is emphasized that the primary responsibility for avoiding hazardous substances and processes rests with industry.
authors.affiliation: Royal Institute of Technology, Dept. of Philosophy and the History of Technology, Teknikringen 78B, 10044 Stockholm, Sweden.
authors.forename: Sven Ove
authors.initials: SO
authors.lastname: Hansson
authors.forename: Linda
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Molander
authors.forename: Christina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Rudén
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002617:Chemical Industry / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards*; D004782:Environmental Health / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D015386:Hazardous Substances / Q000633:toxicity*; D006801:Humans; D018570:Risk Assessment / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards
chemical_list: D015386:Hazardous Substances