World-first tool assesses chemical persistence in environment

Chemical safety and legislation specialist Ricardo has developed a new technology which can greatly improve assessments of chemical persistence in the environment – now a leading cause for concern. 

The Persistence Assessment Tool (PAT) is aimed at manufacturers and importers of substances that fall under environmental regulations. Regulators themselves, including local authorities, and the scientific community also fall within the target market. 

The software-based project aims to tackle two major issues within the chemical industry. Firstly, rocketing demand for chemical biodegradation testing and persistence assessments resulting from increased awareness of the threat posed by global plastic pollution, per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and other ‘forever chemicals’. And, secondly, the complex nature of assessing these chemicals, and gaps in available guidance. 

Ricardo’s new product delivers a clear, structured methodology to capture and store data on the issues. It also evaluates the quality of that data, conducts weight of evidence determination and assesses persistence in relation to regulatory frameworks. Developed alongside Concawe and the International Collaboration on Cosmetics Safety, Cefic Long-Range Research Initiative, and European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of Chemicals, PAT can be downloaded here. Users can also register for an online training session on 21st June here.

‘At Ricardo we have applied our unique knowledge of and expertise in chemical assessment, safety and global regulation to develop the Persistence Assessment Tool, which seeks to address several important gaps in current knowledge and approaches for persistence assessments,’ said Chris Hughes, Head of Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology at Ricardo. ‘We anticipate that it will be the trusted, key tool in facilitating the large number of persistence assessments requiring to be completed under global regulatory frameworks in the coming years.’

More on chemical persistence in the environment:

Persistent Organic Pollutants: Why UK POPs regulations don’t go far enough