The Global Framework on Chemicals is said to represent a shared vision for a world where chemicals and waste pose no harm, fostering safety, health, and sustainability.
UNEP explains the implementation of the Global Framework on Chemicals has been achieved through sustained negotiations among participating nations, with Germany playing a prominent role.
At its core, the framework consists of 28 targets aimed at enhancing the responsible management of chemicals and waste.
Some targets include:
- Participating governments have pledged to create a regulatory environment to reduce chemical pollution and promote safer alternatives by 2030
- Industry stakeholders have committed to responsible chemical management to reduce pollution and its adverse effects by 2030
- The framework calls for highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture to be phased out by 2035 where the risks have not been managed and safer alternatives are available.
- The Framework highlights the importance of strengthening the connections between this new instrument and other vital agendas, such as climate action, biodiversity conservation, human rights, and public health.
A notable achievement within the Global Framework on Chemicals is the adoption of an integrated financing approach to ensure that private-sector funding aligns with the overarching goals of the agreement.
To facilitate this, a dedicated trust fund will be established and managed by UNEP, with an initial contribution of €20m ($21.15m) pledged by Germany. Additional contributions are expected from governments, the private sector, non-governmental organisations, and foundations.
The Global Framework on Chemicals forms part of a broader network of international agreements, aligning with initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and ongoing discussions surrounding a global treaty on plastic pollution, which is under negotiation.
According to the World Health Organization, chemical pollution directly contributes to approximately two million deaths annually and has far-reaching ecological and societal consequences.
UNEP explained that participating governments can now explore new policies and incentives to facilitate adaptation in the chemicals industry and related sectors. The organisation says this may include considering options for phasing out highly hazardous pesticides before the 2035 target.
To carry out the targets in the Global Framework on Chemicals, the chemicals industry is encouraged to proactively invest in eco-friendly alternatives, thus contributing to a more sustainable future. Informed by scientific data and public demand, governments and citizens are likely to advocate for a future free of harmful chemicals, urging the chemicals sector to play an active role in this transition.
In the pursuit of this common goal UNEP urges affluent nations, development banks, philanthropists, investors, and the chemicals industry to collaborate on innovative financing solutions that will support developing nations protect their populations, natural resources, and economies.
