SCIP implementation for substitution of hazardous chemicals towards a safer circular economy

Abstract

The transition to a circular economy (CE) has developed strategies for avoiding hazardous waste streams, increasing the recycling of materials, and increasing the traceability of substances of very high concern (SVHCS) in articles. The Waste Framework Directive dictated to ECHA to create the Substances of Concern in Articles as such or in the Complex Objects (Products) database, or SCIP database, to identify articles in the EU market containing SVHCs above 0.1% (w/w). This thesis uses Vanderlande Industries as a case study and aims to answer key questions related to SCIP implementation and its impacts on the transition to the CE model, its impact on Vanderlande's business model and operations, the compliance status of suppliers, and the challenges and opportunities associated with SCIP implementation. The methodology consisted in designing the implementation plan by engaging with suppliers and gathering and realising their replies. The implementation was split into two phases, both consisting of engaging with the upstream supply chain to find out if the articles provided to Vanderlande were SCIP-listed. In the pilot phase, 19 suppliers were contacted; six provided articles with SCIP-listed numbers, and all were complying with the regulation. For Phase II, 100 suppliers were contacted, 78% replied to the inquiry, and 16% confirmed having SCIP-listed articles; these articles were electrical components, as expected from the high-risk categories. A framework was developed to assess the compliance status of each supplier and stated that 51% of the suppliers were complying with Phase II. It also analysed the influence of the location of the supplier, finding that German and larger enterprises have better compliance rates. The results highlight the importance of SCIP implementation in reducing hazardous substances and promoting recycling for a CE; they reveal varying perceptions of the regulation among different companies, and the lack of standardised responses makes it a little more difficult for the company to ensure compliance with SCIP, although these findings also point out opportunities to improve the company's relationship with its supply chain and to create more sustainable practices. The study demonstrates Vanderlande's commitment to sustainability and its contribution to a toxic-free environment. While further steps are required for full SCIP compliance, this research represents a significant advancement and sets an example for future regulation for CE transitions.