Mistra SafeChem

Mistra SafeChem is a research programme that aims to create a sustainable chemical industry and reduce exposure to hazardous substances. It is financed by Mistra, The Swedish foundation for strategic environmental research, and runs from 2019 to 2028.

The vision for Mistra SafeChem is to enable and promote the expansion of a safe, sustainable and green chemical industry. Central parts of this interdisciplinary program are to develop new processes for industry and develop a toolbox with models and methods for risk assessment of chemicals.

Holistic view and life cycle perspective

The research focuses on proactive risk characterization of new chemicals, new synthetic routes and processes for the design and manufacture of chemicals, as well as developed and improved life cycle analysis. A holistic view and tools for life cycle management are key elements and to convey knowledge from research to business and society at large.

A series of case studies study specific synthesis, recycling and substitution processes at different levels in the value chain and for a number of applications.

Broad cooperation is the key to success

Mistra SafeChem involves extensive collaboration between materials and organic chemists, toxicologists and environmental chemists as well as industrial and product specialists.

The programme is coordinated by IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute. The consortium includes researchers from IVL, Stockholm University, RISE, KTH, Uppsala University and the Technical University of Denmark. The industry participates with representatives from the entire value chain – from the manufacture of chemicals to use in industrial processes and products.

Phase 1 of Mistra SafeChem ran from 2019 to 2024, when Mistra decided to prolongue the research with a second phase running until 2028. The budget per phase is SEK 100 million, of which SEK 70 million comes from Mistra and SEK 30 million from the industry.

Read more on the programme's website.