Alternatives Analysis
In the Alternatives Analysis (AA) process, manufacturers must compare the Chemical of Concern in a Priority Product with potential alternatives to determine if there is a safer way to make the product.
What is Alternatives Analysis?
Alternatives Analysis is a process described in the Safer Consumer Products Regulations. It compares an existing Priority Product (a product that contains a Chemical of Concern) with potential alternatives such as chemical substitution or product redesign. The process uses factors which are evaluated at each stage of the product’s life cycle. When the Alternatives Analysis is complete, the manufacturer or another responsible entity will select an alternative chemical ingredient or alternative product design or decide to retain the existing product-chemical combination.
Each responsible entity is required to submit a report on the completed Alternatives Analysis to the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). DTSC will evaluate the report to determine if the chosen alternative creates adverse public health or environmental impacts need to be remedied by a regulatory response.
Each responsible entity is required to submit a report on the completed Alternatives Analysis to the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). DTSC will evaluate the report to determine if the chosen alternative creates adverse public health or environmental impacts need to be remedied by a regulatory response.
Who Needs to Prepare An Alternatives Analysis?
The manufacturer of a product or another responsible entity such as a consortium, trade association, public-private partnership, non-profit organization, or other entity acting on behalf of the responsible entity, must conduct an Alternatives Analysis.
Alternatives Analysis compares an existing Priority Product (a product that contains a Chemical of Concern) with potential alternatives such as chemical substitution or product redesign. The process uses factors which are evaluated at each stage of the product’s life cycle. When the Alternatives Analysis is complete, the manufacturer or another responsible entity will select an alternative chemical ingredient or alternative product design or decide to retain the existing product-chemical combination.
Alternatives Analysis compares an existing Priority Product (a product that contains a Chemical of Concern) with potential alternatives such as chemical substitution or product redesign. The process uses factors which are evaluated at each stage of the product’s life cycle. When the Alternatives Analysis is complete, the manufacturer or another responsible entity will select an alternative chemical ingredient or alternative product design or decide to retain the existing product-chemical combination.
