This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities. Agenda 21 recommends developing mechanisms to make maximum use in countries of internationally available information.
The International Chemical Information Network aims to: improve the awareness of network members concerning new developments and applications of databases, information systems and information handling software in chemistry and related fields, through exchange of experience and ideas; promote the establishment and use of chemical information systems to solve specific problems, particularly those related to national development; and provide a framework for international cooperative projects aimed at elaborating and applying information strategies for solving developmental problems involving chemical science and technology. The Network promotes and advises on: establishment of national and national, regional and specialized chemicals information networks and linking them internationally; access to and exchange of information experience on information handling methods in chemistry; free or low-cost exchange of information and improved access to databases; access to primary information, including core journals, patents, grey literature and translation facilities. It has set up cooperative schemes for the exchange of primary documentation, including core journals, patents, grey literature and translations, among network members. The Network also exchanges information on training programmes in chemical information, cooperates in the development of core curricula and methodologies for training users and specialists in chemical information, and promotes recommended training programmes (training of trainers).