The study focusses specifically on the environmental and health aspects of biobased production of chemicals compared with those occurring through conventional production processes based on the use of fossil feedstock (primarily crude oil). The study concludes that due to the use of high-risk substances, biobased production processes are not by definition entitled to be ‘green’ production processes.

The study was commissioned by RIVM supporting the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment in executing its policy on Substances of Very High Concern. More research is needed in order to quantify the environmental impact of biobased production routes and to compare this with the impact of conventional routes.