Nowadays we are using more chemicals than before, in a wider variety of products. Even though we have reduced the levels of some dangerous substances in the environment, new dangerous substances are constantly discovered in our surroundings. In some places pollution from earlier industrial and mining activities is still causing problems. Some chemicals can cause cancer, mimic hormones or in other ways disrupt hormones, disturb reproduction or cause acute poisoning. Persistent substances accumulate in the environment and in food chains, and the impacts on people can be very serious.
A modern lifestyle means more use of chemicals
Everyday products are an increasingly important source of pollution, while industrial emissions have been greatly reduced. Dangerous pollutants are also transported from other countries in the atmosphere and with ocean currents. It is essential to learn more about the chemicals that are in use and their effects. The use of the most harmful chemicals must be minimised.
Both national and international action needed
Hazardous substances are to be replaced with less hazardous ones wherever possible. Norway has set targets for reducing or eliminating releases of a number of dangerous substances. International agreements to regulate or ban the use of chemicals are important because many substances spread across national borders. In general, Norway has the same legislation on chemicals as the EU.