University of Gothenburg
Gruppbild av forskarna inom projektet Incentivize
The team: Daniel Slunge, University of Gothenburg (GU), Thomas Sterner GU, Thomas Backhaus, GU & RWTH Aachen University, Marlene Ågerstrand, Stockholm University (SU), Natasja Börjeson SU & Matti Vainio, University of Helsinki.
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New Mistra-funded research project to incentivize a non-toxic circular economy

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FRAM - Centre for Future Chemical Risk Assessment and Management Strategies

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg, together with colleagues from leading European universities, will develop new market-based tools to reduce hazardous chemicals in products and processes. The INCENTIVIZE project also focuses on creating incentives for industry to phase out harmful substances, such as PFAS, and improving recycling methods. The research team combines strong expertise in environmental economics, chemical risk assessment, and EU chemical policy and regulation. By collaborating with industry, policymakers, and civil society, the researchers aim to accelerate the transition to a sustainable and circular economy.

“The EU Emissions Trading System has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Inspired by this success, we aim to explore similar approaches for chemicals. By addressing gaps in current regulations, our research seeks to inform EU chemical policy reviews and support upcoming circular economy legislation,” said project leader Daniel Slunge, Director of FRAM – the Centre for Future Chemical Risk Assessment and Management, at the University of Gothenburg.

Sustainable transition

Slunge, together with Thomas Sterner and Thomas Backhaus (University of Gothenburg and RWTH Aachen University), also researchers at FRAM, as well as Marlene Ågerstrand and Natasja Börjeson from Stockholm University, and Matti Vainio from the University of Helsinki, will develop proposals for market-based instruments inspired by successful models, such as the EU Emissions Trading System.

“Our ambition is to drive industrial innovation that accelerates the transition to safer chemicals and a toxic-free circular economy. Ultimately, this can enhance both public health and environmental outcomes across Europe,” said Slunge.

Safer chemicals

The project will utilize three case studies to test and refine the policy instruments: substances of very high concern (SVHCs) on the EU candidate list, PFAS, and hazardous chemicals in plastics. The researchers will also collaborate in so-called "Policy Labs" with industry, policymakers, and civil society, where the aim is to develop solutions that are both scientifically robust and practically feasible.

Fact

The research project ”INCENTIVIZE: Transferable quotas, fees or taxes for a less toxic circular economy” has received funds – 6 million SEK– by the research foundation Mistra within the call Mistra Utmana.

INCENTIVIZE is led by Daniel Slunge, Environment for Development, at the University of Gothenburg (GU), in collaboration with:

  • Thomas Backhaus, GU & RWTH Aachen University, Germany
  • Marlene Ågerstrand, Stockholm University
  • Natasja Börjeson, Stockholm University
  • Thomas Sterner, University of Gothenburg
  • Matti Vainio, University of Helsinki, Finland

Mistra Utmana, which funds the project, aims to enable bold and innovative research projects that address significant and complex sustainability challenges. Projects are encouraged to propose groundbreaking ideas that challenge conventional perspectives, with the goal of contributing to a sustainable societal transformation.

The expert panel for the call highlighted the project's high scientific quality and its potential for significant impact on both policy and society. For more information about the project and FRAM’s work, visit FRAM's website.

Area
Sustainability and environment
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