Global Governance on Chemical Sound Management and Challenges in Asia-Pacific Region

Abstract

Nowadays with industrialization, modernization, globalization and informalization, the whole world are paying more and more attention to chemical management. International efforts, such as ratified international conventions, Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Lablling of Chemicals (GHS) and The Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) are carried out to protect our environment and ourselves from chemical harm. Chemical issues are urgent and complex, which normally are related to other social-economic issues and vary in different countries. The big challenge in Asia-Pacific Region chemical management lies in (1) uneven chemical industry development demand, (2) diversification in basic realities and emphasizes in chemical managements, (3) limited time and money with massive work and heavy responsibility and (4) lack of transparences and information for stakeholders. The joint effort is required, under the condition of agree to disagree, to change the current situation. Suggestions are made in the following areas: (1) strength indigenous innovation and adjustment of industrial structures, (2) establish core act and regulation system and improve the law enforcement mechanism, (3) implement international standards and increase the international information exchange and (4) establish monitoring and early warning system when implement primary responsibility for enterprises.