Providing public information on chemical safety

Description

Providing public information on chemical safety involves systematically disseminating clear, accessible, and accurate data about chemical hazards, safe handling, and emergency procedures. This strategy empowers individuals, communities, and organizations to recognize risks, prevent accidents, and respond effectively to chemical incidents. By ensuring transparency and education, it addresses misinformation, reduces exposure to harmful substances, and supports compliance with safety regulations, ultimately safeguarding public health and the environment.

Implementation

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 increasing public awareness of problems of chemical safety by directing information campaigns such as programmes providing information about chemical stockpiles, environmentally safer alternatives and emission inventories that could also be a tool for risk reduction to the general public.