Austria has adopted a proactive approach to chemicals policy, both domestically and within the EU. This chapter examines Austria’s policy and institutional framework for managing the risks associated with chemicals. It assesses the measures taken to implement the EU chemicals legislation, in particular the Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). The chapter provides an overview of the occurrence of some hazardous substance categories in human bodies and the environment, based on a range of monitoring programmes. Finally, Austria’s endeavours to promote “green chemistry” and chemicals leasing are discussed.

Austria has a long-established system for managing climate-related natural hazards. Climate change adaptation is a newly emerging policy area that has recently moved into the implementation phase. This chapter outlines the challenges posed to Austria by current and future climatic conditions. It assesses the policy and institutional framework, along with the process and tools used to identify priorities for climate change adaptation policies. The main challenges to implementation of the National Adaptation Strategy are identified, including securing finance and effectively mainstreaming adaptation into sectoral policies. The Austrian contribution to supporting adaptation activities in other countries is also discussed.