Healthy living environment

For our well-being, we depend on a healthy environment. However, our present patterns of production and consumption are resulting in significant pollution. Although certain forms of pollution, such as plastic waste, are visible, others, such as those arising from harmful chemicals, microplastics, and particulate matter, remain invisible. This leads to significant environmental risks and can have detrimental effects on our health.

Our goal

Contribute to a living environment free from visible and invisible pollution.

Our overall approach

• We are committed to regulating the use of harmful chemicals. We enable partner organizations to advocate ambitious EU laws and regulations that restrict the use of harmful chemicals.

• We encourage nature-inclusive agricultural pilot programs, in which pesticides and chemicals are avoided as much as possible.

• We support organizations that create consumer awareness about harmful chemicals.

• In addition, we encourage research and experimentation with safe toxin-free packaging materials and reuse systems.

Partner in the spotlight

Stichting Tegengif: “Everybody in the Netherlands has elevated levels of PFAS in their body”

Stichting Tegengif (Erase all Toxins) makes the general public aware of the daily exposure to harmful chemicals. The organization also advocates for better laws and regulations. Stichting Tegengif initiated the so-called ‘BAN PFAS’ manifesto, written with five European partners. More than 100 civil society organizations co-signed it. PFAS is a collective name for chemicals that occur in non-stick coatings and waterrepellent materials, among other products. The manifesto contains ten demands for authorities, businesses and citizens to stop PFAS pollution. Annelies den Boer, chairperson of Stichting Tegengif: “PFAS pollution is widespread, it’s in everyone right now. We observe that companies that produce PFAS are making their voices heard, as they are not in favor of a ban. That is why, as a civil society organization, we consider it crucial to reiterate the risks and prevalence of this type of pollution and to demonstrate that there is backing for a ban.”

Partner in the spotlight

ECOS: “Consumers learn more about environmental impacts”

The Environmental Coalition on Standards (ECOS) is an international network of members and experts who advocate for environmentally-friendly technical standards, policies, and laws. A major milestone for ECOS in 2022 was the legislative proposal Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). This EU legislation will enter into force in 2024 and revolves around new requirements for product groups such as textiles, furniture, electronics and ICT products. These products must be made more sustainable, reusable, repairable, and easier to maintain and recycle. Director Justin Wilkes: “This ‘ecodesign’ is an important sustainability and circularity instrument, because it determines for up to 80% a product’s environmental impact during its life-cycle. All regulated products will also have a digital product passport with product-specific information. This will help consumers learn more about the environmental impact of their purchase.”

A discarded fishing net on the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea. The Med Sea Alliance wants to end illegal trawling in protected areas.