HEAL calls on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to commit to protecting people’s health from the triple crisis during her second term in a letter. HEAL urges her to safeguard and strengthen the EU climate and environmental acquis for better health, and accelerate on the zero pollution path, including for the foreseen reform of the EU chemicals law REACH.
Circular economy can be an opportunity for health enhancement, only if it is designed to reduce environmental impacts – hazardous substances should not survive in recycled products.
But if risks are not addressed in processes involving hazardous materials, a circular economy could also contribute to the chemical pollution and result in unintended adverse health effects.
This new WHO report explores the opportunities and risks of circular economy for health, helping to inform a crucial debate on the transition towards a healthy and sustainable economy.
Read the full report: Circular economy and health: opportunities and risks