Objectives

The core focus of the project PLANETS is to contribute to the elimination of substances of concern (SoCs) by developing safer alternatives and redesigning production processes to reduce the creation of hazardous materials. The project also emphasizes efficient use of materials—such as renewable and circular feedstocks, improving reaction yields, and minimizing waste—and energy efficiency, including the use of catalysts, fewer production steps, and less energy-intensive methods. 

The overarching goal of PLANETS is to create new, safer alternatives to replace substances of concern in three key areas: surfactants, flame retardants, and plasticizers. This will be achieved through a Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) approach. The project aims to demonstrate that the SSbD approach is practical, effective and scalable, while providing valuable insights to guide policy development. To achieve this, PLANETS has outlined six specific objectives to focus on.