The PlastChem report "State-of-the-science on plastic chemicals", led by NTNU and funded by the Research Council of Norway and the Norwegian Environmental Agency, synthesises scientific understanding of plastic chemicals for policy development. However, Norner raises concerns about its findings and methodologies, which may mislead policymakers and the public about plastic safety.  

The project team did not follow advice from their external experts, resulting in flaws due to their lack of expertise in plastics and polymers. Norner argues that the report contains inaccurate claims about the number of hazardous chemicals used and lack of hazardous data. Furthermore, the report incorrectly lists substances like pesticides and many other non-relevant chemicals as plastic chemicals.  

As the report is uncritically referred to both at governmental level (regjeringen.no) and the European Commission, we believe it's critical that correct information is used in policy making and the continuation of the negotiations of a Global Plastic Treaty.   

Norner recommends revising the PlastChem report to reflect accurate data. 

The findings of Norner's analysis of the report will be presented at Plastdagen 2025 in Copenhagen on May 15th.

Read the Norner's respons

Second Reponse to PlastChem Report by Norner