Last year countries agreed to work harder to prevent accidents and pollution from chemicals. The so-called Global Framework on Chemicals does not only contain objectives for countries and UN organizations, but also for businesses along the chemical value chain. They must implement measures to prevent or, where prevention is not feasible, minimize adverse effects from chemicals.
Out of a total of 28 objectives the following are most relevant to the chemical distribution industry:
- By 2030, stakeholders have effectively prevented all illegal trade and traffic of chemicals and waste.
- By 2030, all Governments have implemented the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) in all relevant sectors as appropriate for their national circumstances.
- By 2030, stakeholders make available, to the extent possible, reliable information on chemicals in materials and products throughout the value chain.
- By 2030, Governments work towards notifying, regulating or prohibiting the export of chemicals they have prohibited nationally, in line with their international obligations
ICTA has been active in the negotiations on these targets. It has pushed for the inclusion of the first two targets and changes the wording of the second two targets.
It remains to be seen how much value the Global Framework will actually have in real life. The framework is voluntary and aspirational. At the moment governments and UN organizations are currently operationalizing the framework for instance by creating a fund to support projects with $ 300 – 800k in financial support.
At ICTA, we are setting up the Global Responsible Distribution program, which will help our industry to contribute to these objectives. This helps you as a chemical distributor to operate safely and sustainably. Interested to learn more? Get in touch.