Persistent chemicals are particularly problematic since they break down extremely slowly, steadily accumulating in humans and/or the environment over time. Because of this, investors should be especially wary of persistent chemicals. Substances not considered a problem today might become huge liabilities in the future with regard to clean-up and compensation costs, as well as legal responsibilities.

Criteria and calculations in this category

1. Has the company mapped the presence of (un)intentionally present persistent chemicals in its processes and upstream value chain?
2. Does the company produce, buy, import or sell persistent chemicals? Does it have a phase-out plan for these activities?
3. How large is the share of revenue coming from products containing persistent chemicals?
4. Does the company publish a clear roadmap/strategy (with/without KPIs) to phase out intentionally present persistent chemicals or provide a statement that they are free (within the above limits) from them?
5. Does the company acknowledge that persistent chemicals may be problematic from a human health or environmental perspective?

Points are deducted if the company’s definition of “persistent” includes only substances on the REACH candidate list such as PBT, vPvB, PMT or vPvM. Additional points are awarded when the definition of persistent chemicals is broader.

Further points are deducted if the company applies its policies for persistent chemicals to consumer products/uses only.