...During my trip, key stakeholders provided me with valuable information on the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, which is currently being developed under the auspices of the Federal Foreign Office. As a follow up to my country visit I would like to make a written submission to the process of this important undertaking for your consideration...Human rights due diligence speaks directly to the responsibility of businesses to prevent exposure to hazardous substances and wastes. As the scientific evidence continues to grow of both the health risks and impacts of hazardous substances in Germany and around the world, the transition to safer chemicals is necessary to ensure the progressive realization of human rights, particularly of those who are marginalised or are in vulnerable situations. The risks to those most vulnerable to toxic chemicals must be the basis of efforts by those businesses whose activities are implicated under the National Action Plan...