Which directive addresses the management of hazardous substances like mercury?

The management of hazardous substances like mercury is specifically addressed by the PBT Source Reduction directive. PBT stands for Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic substances, which includes heavy metals like mercury that can have significant environmental and health impacts. This directive aims to reduce the use and release of these harmful substances, hence promoting safer materials and practices in industries and construction projects.

The focus of the PBT Source Reduction is on preventing pollution at its source, rather than managing it after it has been generated. This is crucial in ensuring the protection of human health and the environment by minimizing exposure to these toxic chemicals. The other options do not specifically target the management of hazardous substances in the same manner. For instance, the Construction Waste Directive focuses on managing and reducing waste generated during construction, whereas the Energy Performance Directive is centered on increasing energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption, not directly related to the management of hazardous substances. ISO Quality Standards are concerned with providing guidelines to ensure the quality of products and services but do not focus on hazardous substance management.