The use of hazardous chemical substances in Lithuanian industry: how sound is it?

Various chemical substances are one of the resources used for production processes and incorporated into the composition of goods for consumption. They perform numerous useful functions, but at the same time may be hazardous. The article analyses the relevance of the selected hazardous substances/groups of substances (organotin compounds, phenols and their ethoxylates, phthalates, brominated diphenylethers, chlorinated paraffins, and perfluortensides) to Lithuania, investigate their probable sources based on emission analysis, and look into the substitution possibilities when seeking a more sustainable production and sustainable products. e investigated hazardous substances were found in emissions from various industry branches, indicating that they are still in use. The most relevant substances are nonylphenols and their ethoxylates, organotin compounds, phthalates (mainly Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). Industry awareness about hazardous substances is not very high, therefore further measures to encourage substitution are required. This shall be done in double way – by approaching both producers and customers.