UN Bonn Summit: Framework for Hazardous Chemicals

Delegates at a United Nations (UN) Conference in Bonn, Germany, have adopted a groundbreaking global framework aimed at reducing environmental risks associated with chemicals and waste. This initiative, set forth on September 30, 2023, during the fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5), commits to phasing out the most harmful chemicals and promotes the development of safer alternatives.

Key Highlights of the Framework:

Phasing Out Hazardous Pesticides: By 2035, the framework targets the elimination of highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture, focusing on instances where risks remain unmanaged.

Global Framework on Chemicals: Incorporates 28 targets designed to enhance the responsible management of chemicals and waste across their lifecycle. This framework seeks to align with global agendas on climate change, biodiversity, human rights, and health.

National Policy Commitments: Countries have pledged to formulate policies and regulations aimed at reducing chemical pollution by 2030.

Industry Participation: Industries are encouraged to manage chemicals responsibly to minimize pollution and its adverse effects.

Bonn Declaration: This declaration focuses on preventing exposure to harmful chemicals, phasing out the most harmful substances where possible, and promoting the safe management of necessary chemicals. It also supports the shift towards circular economies and the development of chemical substitutes.

Health and Environmental Protection: The initiative is motivated by the need to protect health and the environment, with UN Environment Programme Executive Director Inger Andersen highlighting the significant impact of chemical pollution, which leads to two million deaths annually according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

This comprehensive approach not only aims to safeguard health and the environment but also seeks to minimize waste and enhance recycling efforts. The commitment to going beyond the agreed targets to protect people and the planet signifies a global effort to address the challenges posed by chemical pollution.

SRIRAM’s