Life expectancy has generally improved worldwide and major progress has been made towards good health and well-being. However, continued efforts are needed, for instance to address infectious diseases which still kill 3.5 million people annually.

Chemicals in medicines or in day-to-day products such as soap can help prevent these deaths. For many infectious diseases (such as Ebola) rodents are the source of infection . Chemicals used in rodenticides can prevent the spread of these diseases.

Chemical distributors provide the producers of these medicines and personal care products with the substances they need in their production process. To prevent contaminations and ensure high quality, they make sure these substances are sourced, stored and transported safely. Chemical distributors also engage with their own suppliers and customers to ensure they work safely and responsibly. Part of this effort is to provide information on product stewardship through the value chain. ICTA stimulates it’s partners and members to apply the highest standards and to take on supply chain responsibility.

Chemical distributors also work hard to prevent harmful chemicals from falling into the wrong hands. They implement checks and controls to make sure they don’t accidentally sell chemicals to criminals (e.g. for use in narcotics) or terrorists (e.g. for use in explosives).

Other goals: