Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM)

In 2006, the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) became the broadest global framework for the sound management of chemicals, but one which, by design, imposes no binding obligations on countries. SAICM is a broad, international policy framework aiming to achieve the sound management of chemicals throughout their lifecycle by 2020. The scope of SAICM is nearly unlimited. It includes both toxic chemicals and hazardous industrial activities that are unaddressed by global treaties.

From the very beginning of SAICM, CIEL has been helping to develop its legal framework and advising NGOs and governments on its implementation. In 2012, we helped secure the inclusion of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) as one of five priority issue areas. Through the SAICM process and our close collaboration with the International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN), we lead civil society efforts on nanotechnologies and nanomaterials, raising awareness in the Global South, pushing for global regulation of these substances, and successfully including nano-specific activities within the SAICM Global Plan of Action.

Last updated June 2015