SCI's Daily Digest: your one-stop shop for all of the day's news in science based industry

In today's Daily Digest, EU and US to replace PFAS in semiconductor supply chain, UNEP's new report on the textile value chain, and more.

Policy

The UK’s first post-Brexit trade deals completed with Australia and New Zealand have come into effect. Under the deal beneficial terms tariffs on all UK goods exports to Australia and New Zealand will be removed and red tape simplified for digital trade and work visas. A special handpicked shipment of UK good including signed Beano comics, and Brighton Gin are the first good to be shipped under the new arrangements.

The EU and US have held their fourth ministerial meeting of the EU-US Trade and Technology Council. The partners have advanced work on semiconductors, implementing agreements on supply chain early warning and subsidies transparency. They will also join forces to replace PFAS in the semiconductor supply chain. They have also agreed on a list of key outcomes to advance transatlantic cooperation on emerging technologies, sustainable trade, economic security and prosperity, and human rights in the digital environment.

Environment

Environment-focused directors from Multilateral Development Banks have discussed the topic of the circular economy, for the first time, during the 2023 World Circular Economy Forum, which is being held in Helsinki. The directors recognised the value of cooperation between the banks on the circular economy and agreed that their institutions should continue to work together. The WCEF runs 30 May to 2nd June.

UNEP has used the World Circular Economy Forum to release a new report: Sustainability and Circularity in the Textile Value Chain: A Global Roadmap. The report was launched at a UNEP side event: Wardrobe of the Future how to change the textiles and fashion industry.

Sabic has released its 2022 Sustainability Report, which details progress towards key commitments, including advancing the circular economy, ensuring responsible chemicals management and increasing ESG disclosures.