The chemical industry is undergoing a major transformation. In response to environmental, regulatory and societal demands, green chemistry is emerging as a strategic solution that combines sustainability, performance and industrial safety. At OSE SERVICES, we support our clients through this transition by drawing on our solid scientific, regulatory and operational expertise.
Green chemistry: a driver for sustainable industry
Green chemistry aims to reduce the environmental impact of chemicals and protect human health.
It is based on key principles such as:
- the use of renewable raw materials;
- the reduction of waste and emissions;
- the minimisation of substance toxicity.
In an industrial context, this translates into replacing conventional products with bio-based alternatives, designing safer formulations and adopting environmentally friendly processes. However, this transition must be guided by rigorous assessments to ensure technical performance and operator safety.
Chemical safety and REACH compliance : an essential foundation
The REACH regulation requires manufacturers to demonstrate the safety of the substances and mixtures they use or produce. This includes:
- the assessment of additives and chemicals;
- the identification of substances of very high concern (SVHCs);
- verification of safety data sheets (SDS) and CLP classification;
- • the search for safer alternatives to substances of concern
At OSE SERVICES, our role is to support companies in these processes by providing environmental and analytical expertise. Our services help to prevent regulatory risks and ensure the safe placing of chemicals on the market.
Operator safety : challenges posed by recycled plastics (RP)
The adoption of recycled plastics (RP) highlights the complexity of the transition to sustainable solutions. During a study at a plastics processing workshop, OSE SERVICES assessed operators’ exposure to residual compounds released during the incorporation of RP.
Although recycled materials support the circular economy, they can pose specific risks:
- variability in composition from one batch to another;
- the presence of contaminants or residual additives;
- emissions of volatile compounds during thermal processes.
Our measurements and analyses enable us to identify these risks and propose concrete solutions, such as process optimisation, appropriate ventilation or the selection of safe raw materials.
Product claim verification : PFAS, 100% natural, bio-based
Consumers are seeking safer and more environmentally friendly products. Marketing claims — “100% natural”, “PFAS-free”, “bio-based” — have become key differentiators, but they require rigorous verification.
OSE SERVICES steps in to:
- check that raw materials are free from substances of concern, such as PFAS;
- validate that products comply with the claims made;
- secure the supply chain to prevent any legal or reputational risk.
This approach ensures that the claim made to the consumer is scientifically sound, thereby boosting confidence in the products.
Chemical substitution and industrial disputes
Replacing a conventional product with a bio-based or more environmentally friendly alternative can lead to differences in performance. OSE SERVICES was appointed as an expert by a commercial court in a dispute where the substitution of a chemical had resulted in an industrial failure.
This case highlights:
- the importance of a multi-criteria analysis : chemical, mechanical and toxicological properties;
- the need to rigorously document the performance of alternatives;
- the key role of independent scientific expertise in informing technical and legal decisions.
Analytical and environmental expertise: an OSE SERVICES strength
Our laboratory and team of experts offer a comprehensive approach. Discover how we can address your challenges.
- physico-chemical characterisation of materials and additives;
- risk assessment of emerging chemical substances;
- assistance with product substitution and performance monitoring;
- scientific support in litigation or forensic investigations.
This combination of skills enables our clients to balance innovation, safety and regulatory compliance, whilst meeting the growing demands of markets and consumers.
The challenges of tomorrow: sustainability, safety and trust
The chemical industry faces a wide range of challenges:
- incorporating recycled and bio-based materials without compromising performance;
- monitoring substances of concern and ensuring regulatory compliance;
- validating environmental and health claims;
- managing emerging risks for operators and consumers.
OSE SERVICES positions itself as a strategic partner to meet these challenges. Our expertise enables manufacturers to :
- innovate with confidence;
- ensure the safety of processes and products;
- strengthen the credibility and sustainability of their environmental approach.
Green chemistry is not just a marketing label: it is a scientific, regulatory and industrial approach. To successfully transition to a more sustainable industry, it is essential to combine innovation, safety and compliance.
At OSE SERVICES, we support our clients at every stage, from the assessment of raw materials to the management of industrial disputes, including the verification of product claims and operator safety. In this way, green chemistry becomes not only a driver of sustainability, but also a catalyst for trust and performance in the industry of tomorrow.