Policy & Governance
Science & Resources
Policy and governance hold immense power in shaping the way we approach a low-tox lifestyle. They influence everything from business practices and product development to marketing strategies and regulatory standards, creating the framework within which industries and consumers operate. However, this system is often swayed by the interests of powerful lobby groups and industry players, who can shape policies to serve their agendas, sometimes at the expense of public health and environmental sustainability. By examining these dynamics, we can uncover how policy impacts our lifestyle choices and advocate for more transparent, balanced governance. Through informed action, we can support the development of policies that prioritize well-being, fairness, and the long-term health of both individuals and the planet.
Policy & Regulatory Documents
PFAS National Environmental Management Plan 2.0 2020 Heads of EPAs of Australia and New Zealand
The PFAS National Environmental Management Plan (NEMP) 2.0 provides comprehensive guidance on managing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination across Australia. Building on the first version published in 2018, the plan outlines key areas for effective PFAS management, including updated environmental guideline values, soil reuse, wastewater management, and on-site containment. It offers detailed protocols for assessing, remediating, and containing PFAS contamination in various environmental media, while also addressing public health concerns related to exposure. Developed collaboratively by the National Chemicals Working Group and endorsed by Heads of Environmental Protection Agencies (EPAs), the NEMP emphasizes the importance of consistent, science-based approaches to PFAS management. The plan encourages ongoing monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and the adoption of regulatory best practices at the jurisdictional level. It also provides strategies for managing PFAS-contaminated sites, addressing long-term environmental risks, and ensuring transparent communication with affected communities. Through this framework, NEMP 2.0 aims to support regulatory bodies in their efforts to manage PFAS contamination while safeguarding public health and environmental integrity. The implementation of these guidelines relies on effective enforcement and local adaptation to ensure comprehensive protection against the risks posed by PFAS.
Heads of EPAs Australia and New Zealand. (2020). PFAS National Environmental Management Plan Version 2.0. Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. Retrieved from https://www.dcceew.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/pfas-nemp-2.pdf
Agencies & Governance
The EU’s chemicals strategy for sustainability towards a toxic-free environment.
Chemicals are essential for the well-being, high living standards and comfort of modern society. They are used in many sectors, including health, energy, mobility and housing. However, most chemicals have hazardous properties which can harm the environment and human health. The EU already has sophisticated chemicals laws in place, but global chemicals production is expected to double by 2030. The already widespread use of chemicals will also increase, including in consumer products. The European Commission published a chemicals strategy for sustainability on 14 October 2020. It is part of the EU’s zero pollution ambition, which is a key commitment of the European Green Deal.
European Commission on Environment. (2025, January 26). The EU’s chemicals strategy for sustainability towards a toxic-free environment. European Commission. https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/chemicals-strategy_en
Biden-Harris Administration finalizes first-ever national drinking water standard to protect 100M people from PFAS pollution. [Press Release]
WASHINGTON – Today, April 10, the Biden-Harris Administration issued the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to harmful per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as ‘forever chemicals.’ Exposure to PFAS has been linked to deadly cancers, impacts to the liver and heart, and immune and developmental damage to infants and children. This final rule represents the most significant step to protect public health under EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap. The final rule will reduce PFAS exposure for approximately 100 million people, prevent thousands of deaths, and reduce tens of thousands of serious illnesses. Today’s announcement complements President Biden’s government-wide action plan to combat PFAS pollution.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2024, April 10). Biden-Harris Administration finalizes first-ever national drinking water standard to protect 100M people from PFAS pollution: As part of the Administration’s commitment to combating PFAS pollution, EPA announces $1B investment through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to address PFAS in drinking water. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/biden-harris-administration-finalizes-first-ever-national-drinking-water-standard-protect-100m-people-pfas-pollution
