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  Effects on aquatic life

  We limit the emissions but many chemicals used today still end up in our environment and in lakes, rivers and oceans. Most chemicals cause no harm but not surprisingly, chemicals that are harmful to humans may also be harmful to the environment and to the animals that live in aquatic ecosystems.

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  Chemicals and climate change

  On a global scale, we are using more energy than ever before, and this is having serious effects on the Earth’s climate. But, while the release of some chemicals into the environment can accelerate climate change, chemicals are also part of the solution.

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  Chemicals in agriculture

  Conventional farming makes use of pesticides to protect plants and fertilisers to enhance their growth and fertility. In organic farming, their use is heavily restricted. In both types of farming, the EU is working for safer products for consumers.