The Sustainable Development Goals of the Agenda 2030 are only achievable if chemicals are used in the right extent, says the German Environment Agency (UBA). The risks for health and the environment need to be globally minimized. At the same time, the opportunities for the societies by chemicals need to be maximized worldwide. Read more in our Thought Starter.
The European chemicals regulation REACH is intended to contribute to a more sustainable chemistry. A current UBA report provides a systematic analysis on the relations between main elements of REACH (e.g. Registration or Information in the supply chain) and main elements of sustainable chemistry (e.g. substitution of hazardous substances or corporate social responsibility of companies).
Sustainability evaluation of case studies on Sustainable Chemistry
Results of an expert discussion at 10.09.2018
When it comes to managing chemicals, the primary concern is to minimise negative environmental and health impacts and conserve resources while maximising the benefits of using chemicals for sustainable development. To achieve this goal, a wide range of stakeholders must work together internationally and make concerted use of effective tools for global chemicals management.
Mankind needs to transform its economy towards sustainability and a circular economy, because current development is leading us to exceed the planetary boundaries and thus threatening the future and well-being of mankind.
The Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) is a voluntary framework for achieving responsible chemicals management worldwide. With its cross-sectoral approach and broad stakeholder involvement, it is unique. However, SAICM's overarching "2020 goal" for chemicals management has not been achieved.
