SAICM was established a decade ago as a voluntary approach to complement regulatory gaps to achieve sound management of chemicals by 2020. Despite significant actions taken since then, chemicals still pose a grave risk through the pollution of air, water, soil, and food. In 2015, an international process was set in motion to design a new global framework for sound management of chemicals and wastes. The new framework will replace SAICM and it is envisaged to be adopted in 2020. This report is the first attempt to analyse functions needed for effective chemicals and waste governance and to identify options for the institutional form in the post-2020 era. The report aims to increase understanding of reforms required to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals and wastes, in light of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.

SAICM was established a decade ago as a voluntary approach to complement regulatory gaps to achieve sound management of chemicals by 2020. Despite significant actions taken since then, chemicals still pose a grave risk through the pollution of air, water, soil, and food. In 2015, an international process was set in motion to design a new global framework for sound management of chemicals and wastes. The new framework will replace SAICM and it is envisaged to be adopted in 2020. This report is the first attempt to analyse functions needed for effective chemicals and waste governance and to identify options for the institutional form in the post-2020 era. The report aims to increase understanding of reforms required to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals and wastes, in light of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.

This incisive volume of the Elgar Encyclopedia of Environmental Law offers a broad analysis of the foundations, main concepts, and substantive and procedural requirements of selected chemical law regimes as they pertain to the environment. Featuring contributions from more than 40 expert scholars and practitioners in the field, the volume focuses on chemical regulatory systems from representative jurisdictions, including the EU and the US, to provide a coherent overview of this expansive and often fragmented area of law. Divided into five thematic parts, the volume first examines the fundamental concepts of chemical law, addressing topics including risk assessment, nomenclature, environmental justice and animal testing. Entries then discuss types of chemicals and exposures, regulation of chemicals in products and manufacturing, and waste and contamination, as well as covering liability rules as they apply to chemicals. This volume will be an essential resource for scholars and students looking for a clear understanding of chemicals regulation and governance from environmental and public health perspectives at both national and international levels. Its insights into policy developments and liability issues will also be of interest to policymakers and practitioners.