Publications
Publications
Qualitative and quantitative modelling of the efficacy of policy instruments
This study presents the results of a comprehensive research of qualitative and quantitative modelling approaches to analyse the efficacy of policy instruments for complex problems and including social aspects. In addition to reviewing existing modelling approaches (e.g.
Land use monitoring and land take in international comparison
The high land take rate is a problem throughout Europe. The EU demands that land take will be reduced to net zero until the year 2050 (no net land take target). However, land take in Europe is recorded at national level using different methods. Depending on whether the surveys are based on aerial photo data or cadastral data, the results differ significantly in some cases.
Consideration of disinfection by-products in the environmental risk assessment of biocidal products
The project compiled data on disinfection by-products (DBPs) as well as biocidal active substances from product types (PTs) 1-5, 11 and 12. DBP formation potential of each active ingredient was evaluated. In a modeling approach, distribution of selected DBPs and biocidal active substances for applications in solution and on surfaces was estimated.
Tailings Management Facilities (TMF) Safety Methodology
The Tailings Management Facility (TMF) Safety Methodology is mainly based on the requirements and principles declared in “Safety guidelines and good practices for tailings management facilities” endorsed by the Conference of the Parties to the UNECE Convention on the Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents as well as other comparable international TMF standards.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) - Contribution to the discussion on its integration into national climate action strategies
The UBA position paper assesses the usefullness of carbon capture and storage (CCS for short) as a climate protection instrument. It describes guidelines for sustainable use, as well as the necessary monitoring and risk prevention. The effects of CCS on human health and the environment are also considered.
A prioritization framework for PMT/vPvM Substances under REACH for registrants, regulators, researchers and the water sector
PFAS only the tip of the iceberg: Each water sample was contaminated with mobile forever chemicals such as TFA, PFPrA or TFMS. But also 26 of the 34 non-fluorinated PMT/vPvM substances analysed were detected, including 1H benzotriazole, 1,4-dioxane, melamine, cyanuric acid and diphenyl guanidine.
Prioritised PMT/vPvM substances in the REACH registration database
Protecting the aquatic environment from chemicals for future generations: The UBA list of 259 PMT/vPvM substances (based on the new CLP criteria) in the REACH registration database that are hazardous to our drinking water resources and must not be emitted into the environment.
PMT/vPvM assessment of REACH registered Substances Detected in Wastewater Treatment Plant Effluent, Freshwater Resources and Drinking Water
A broad literature review (55 studies published between 2000 and 2019) now shows that 639 chemicals are already known as contaminants in river bank filtrate (114 substances), groundwater (338 substances), raw water (212 substances) or drinking water (385 substances).
REACH: Guidance and Methods for the Identification and Assessment of PMT/vPvM Substances
Protection of drinking water resources from PMT/vPvM substances: Revised guidance for REACH registrants on the identification of these substances of very high concern (SVHC). Only 1.9 % of the unique chemical structures in the REACH registration database fall in the new CLP hazard classes PMT and vPvM.
Short Typology of Carbon Dioxide Removals
On 30 November 2022, the Commission proposed a voluntary EU carbon removal certification framework (CRCF) in order to promote carbon dioxide removal (CDR) through natural and technical approaches and spur investments into the respective technologies.
National Energy and Climate Plans: Evidence of Policy Impacts and Options for more Transparency
The meta study makes suggestions on content requirements, transparency and comprehensibility of NECP reporting and contributes to its further development. The authors analysed the German NECP and the NECPs of Denmark, France, Sweden and Slovenia.
Particulate matter formation potential of gas-phase emissions over Germany
Particulate matter (PM) is the air pollutant that is responsible for the highest burden of disease in Germany and other European countries. Therefore, measures are needed to reduce its ambient concentrations. A large proportion of PM is not emitted directly: it is formed from gaseous precursors in the atmosphere.